Case report--carcinoid syndrome: two case reports from reserve unit.

Carcinoid tumours are uncommon and carcinoid syndrome is likely to be encountered only occasionally during a clinical career outside the Neuro-endocrine and related specialties. Two cases of carcinoid syndrome are described in Royal Naval Reserve (RNR) personnel presenting simultaneously in the same unit. Both had long histories and, despite early contact with medical staff, had for some time been dismissed as having trivial complaints. Both have responded well to treatment, though neither has been able to have curative surgery. The current methods of diagnosis which allow much earlier identification and localisation of these tumours are discussed. We also review the management options now available which will control disease and allow the patient to pursue their chosen career, be it military or civil.