Understanding Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome
Zollinger-Ellison syndrome is a rare condition in which one or more tumors form in your pancreas or the upper part of your small intestine (duodenum), causing the stomach to produce too much acid.
Key Fact: The excess acid leads to severe peptic ulcers and often chronic diarrhea.
Common Symptoms
Abdominal Pain
Burning, aching, or gnawing pain in the upper abdomen.
Severe Heartburn
Persistent acid reflux that doesn't respond well to standard antacids.
Diarrhea
Chronic, watery bowel movements caused by the high acid levels.
Weight Loss
Loss of weight and decreased appetite due to digestive distress.
Risk Factors
- Family history of MEN 1 (Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia Type 1) syndrome
Diagnosis & Treatment
Diagnosis
Diagnosis involves measuring gastrin levels in the blood and locating the tumors.
Fasting Serum Gastrin Test
Secretin Stimulation Test
Endoscopic Ultrasound
Somatostatin Receptor Scintigraphy
Common Treatments
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Proton Pump Inhibitors: High doses of PPIs like omeprazole to suppress acid production and allow ulcers to heal.
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Surgical Removal: The primary treatment is the surgical removal of the gastrin-producing tumors (gastrinomas).
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Chemotherapy: Used if the tumors have spread to other parts of the body (metastasized).