Health A-Z

Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome (ZES) is a rare disorder characterized by the overproduction of gastrin, a hormone that stimulates the production of stomach acid. This excessive acid production can lead to complications such as peptic ulcers, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and sometimes even tumors in the pancreas or duodenum. Here's an overview of the symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome.

1. Abdominal Pain: Often described as a burning sensation, typically located in the upper abdomen.
2. Reflux Symptoms: Including heartburn, regurgitation, and difficulty swallowing.
3. Peptic Ulcers: Chronic or recurrent ulcers in the stomach or duodenum.
4. Diarrhea: Can be severe and persistent.
5. Weight Loss: Due to malabsorption of nutrients.

1. Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs): These medications reduce stomach acid production and can help alleviate symptoms and heal ulcers.
2. Surgery: If a tumor is found, surgical removal may be necessary, especially if it's causing complications or not responding to medication.
3. Somatostatin Analogues: Drugs like octreotide can help inhibit the release of gastrin and reduce acid production.
4. Chemotherapy: In cases where tumors are malignant and have spread, chemotherapy may be necessary.
5. Lifestyle Modifications: Avoiding trigger foods, managing stress, and quitting smoking can help manage symptoms

1. Blood Tests: Measuring levels of gastrin and stomach acid.
2. Endoscopy: Using a flexible tube with a camera to examine the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum.
3. Imaging Tests: Such as CT scans, MRIs, or somatostatin receptor scintigraphy (SRS), to locate tumors in the pancreas or duodenum.
4. Secretin Stimulation Test: Involves measuring gastrin levels before and after injection of secretin, which normally suppresses gastrin release but may not in ZES.