Health A-Z

Zollinger-Ellison syndrome (ZES) is a rare condition characterized by the overproduction of gastrin, a hormone that stimulates the production of stomach acid. This excessive acid production can lead to peptic ulcers, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and other gastrointestinal issues. Here's a breakdown of symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment.

1. Abdominal Pain: Persistent, severe abdominal pain, often in the upper abdomen.
2. Heartburn and Acid Reflux: Chronic heartburn and acid reflux, which may worsen at night or after meals.
3. Nausea and Vomiting: Feeling nauseous and vomiting, which can occur due to the excessive acidity in the stomach.
4. Gastrointestinal Bleeding: In severe cases, ZES can lead to gastrointestinal bleeding, causing symptoms like bloody stools or vomiting blood.
5. Diarrhea: Chronic diarrhea, which can be severe and persistent.

1. Medication: Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) such as omeprazole or pantoprazole are commonly prescribed to reduce stomach acid production and alleviate symptoms.
2. Surgery: In some cases, surgical removal of gastrin-secreting tumors (gastrinomas) in the pancreas or duodenum may be necessary.
3. Lifestyle Changes: Avoiding trigger foods, eating smaller meals, and not lying down immediately after eating can help manage symptoms.
4. Long-Term Monitoring: Regular follow-up appointments with a healthcare provider are necessary to monitor symptoms, adjust medication, and check for complications such as ulcers or tumor growth.

1. Blood Tests: Blood tests can measure levels of gastrin and stomach acid. Elevated levels of gastrin can indicate ZES.
2. Endoscopy: A procedure in which a flexible tube with a camera is inserted into the esophagus, stomach, and small intestine to look for ulcers or other abnormalities.
3. Imaging Tests: Imaging tests like CT scans or MRI scans may be used to look for tumors in the pancreas or duodenum.
4. Secretin Stimulation Test: This test involves injecting secretin, a hormone that normally inhibits gastrin release. In patients with ZES, gastrin levels remain high even after secretin injection.
5. pH Monitoring: This test measures the acidity in the esophagus over a 24-hour period to assess for GERD.