Sandostatin and carcinoid tumours in France: experience in the Lyon area.

Twenty-two patients with moderate to severe carcinoid syndrome received Sandostatin in doses ranging from 50 to 500 micrograms b.i.d. subcutaneously in addition to their usual drug therapies. Symptoms were reported improved in 60% of patients following a test period of Sandostatin. Lack of effect was observed in 5 patients and a lethal complication (obstructing intestinal tumour) occurred in 1. Of 13 patients who received Sandostatin for 3-36 months, 9 remain under control; 3 patients died - 1 from carcinoid spread and the other 2 from unrelated causes. Side effects have been few and mild. In summary, Sandostatin is a valuable agent in the management of carcinoid syndrome.