In this video, we will discuss tryptophan metabolism as applied to carcinoid syndrome in patients with neuroendocrine tumors. In the normal human body, tryptophan metabolism follows three major pathways in the gastrointestinal tract. While these catabolic pathways are in homeostasis at baseline, the balance can be disturbed in a number of pathologic states, including carcinoid syndrome. Given the role of serotonin in the pathophysiology of carcinoid syndrome, a key goal of therapy is reduction of the level of circulating serotonin and restoration of homeostasis.
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