A Carcinoid-like Syndrome Caused by a Prostaglandin-Secreting Renal Cell Carcinoma

• We report a case of carcinoid-like syndrome in a patient with metastatic renal cell carcinoma. Peripheral venous plasma levels of prostaglandin (PG) E and of a derivative of PGF 2 α were raised during the attacks. The urinary excretion of 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid was repeatedly normal. The flushing attacks were not prevented by therapy with antihistamines, phenothiazines, antiserotonin agents, or glucocorticoids. Treatment with aspirin completely prevented the attacks, and its withdrawal led invariably to their recurrence. (Arch Intern Med 140:1095-1096, 1980)