Metastatic carcinoid tumour presenting as hepatic encephalopathy.
BACKGROUND
Hepatic encephalopathy is rarely encountered with carcinoid syndrome, but massive hepatic replacement by carcinoid tumour can cause neuropsychiatric alterations.


METHODS
A man of 42 years presented with carcinoid syndrome accompanied by features of hepatic encephalopathy. Following extended right hepatectomy his mental status returned to normal in line with markers of hepatic failure.


CONCLUSIONS
Extensive replacement of liver parenchyma by carcinoid tumours can lead to hepatic dysfunction as circulating levels of unmetabolised ammonia rise secondary to porto systemic shunting.
Stojadinovic
Alexander
A
Department of Surgery, Walter Reed Army Medical Center, Washington, DC, USA.
Allen
Peter J
PJ
Shriver
Craig D
CD