Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome

Zollinger-Ellison syndrome is a rare and treatable condition, and it could lead to life-threatening complications if not managed.

Zollinger-Ellison syndrome

Zollinger-Ellison syndrome occurs when one or more tumors manifest in the small intestine or the pancreas and cause excessive release of gastric acid in the stomach.

Causes of Zollinger-Ellison syndrome

• The reason behind Zollinger-Ellison syndrome is unknown in most of the cases. When the tumors develop, they lead to an increased secretion of the hormone gastrin, which, in turn, causes the stomach to produce large amounts of gastric acid, and that leads to severe peptic ulcers and diarrhea in some cases.
• Sometimes, Zollinger-Ellison syndrome might occur due to an inherited condition called multiple endocrine neoplasia (MEN).

Symptoms of Zollinger-Ellison syndrome

• Burning and severe stomach pain.
• Acid reflux and heartburn.
• Diarrhea.
• Nausea and vomiting.
• Burping.
• Loss of appetite.
• Unintentional weight loss.
• The large amounts of gastric acid might lead to bleeding in the digestive tract, which could manifest as blood in the vomit or in the stool.
• The tumors can be cancerous, and they might also spread to the liver.
• Sometimes, the tumor might block the duodenum and make it rupture, which is a serious issue.

Diagnosis of Zollinger-Ellison syndrome

• Blood tests.
• Endoscopy.
• Imaging tests.
• Stomach acid test.

Treatment of Zollinger-Ellison syndrome

• Medications.
• Surgery to remove the tumors.
• If the tumors are cancerous, the patient might require chemotherapy.