Carcinoid of the ampulla of Vater. Clinical characteristics and morphologic features.

BACKGROUND

Carcinoid tumors of the gastrointestinal tract are most common localized in the appendix, followed by the small intestine, the rectum, and the stomach. The localization of these tumors at the ampulla of Vater is extremely seldom.

METHODS

In the present study the authors describe two patients with carcinoid tumors of the ampulla Vater and review 71 previously published cases.

RESULTS

Most patients presented with jaundice, but without carcinoid syndrome. Because the tumor grows submucosally, preoperative diagnosis was correct only in 15%. Most tumors were around 2 cm in size. Metastasis to lymph nodes and/or liver was present in 45%. Standard treatment is Whipple resection or local excision in small tumors.

CONCLUSIONS

Carcinoid tumors of the ampulla of Vater are an extremely rare clinical entity. Generally, the prognosis is good with a 5-year survival period of 90%.