One of the primary chemicals secreted by the carcinoid tumor is serotonin. When there is a tumor, the production of serotonin increases significantly. This can dramatically alter the body's hormone balance and lead to a condition called pellagra. Pellagra is characterized by diarrhea, skin inflammation, and dementia. The person affected with pellagra may become more aggressive or develop sensitivity to the light of the sun. Hair loss and lack of sleep are also common symptoms.

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