What is Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome?

Description of the disease

Zollinger-Ellison syndrome is a rare condition characterized by the formation of tumors in the pancreas and stomach. The tumors are neuroendocrine and capable of producing the hormone gastrin, which leads to increased acidity of the stomach acid.

Classification

• Zollinger-Ellison syndrome can be classified as a gastrinoma, in which the tumor produces an excess of gastrin hormone, causing ulcers in the stomach and duodenum.

Symptoms

• Frequent ulcers in the stomach and/or duodenum
• Pain in the epigastric area
• Diarrhea
• Vomiting

Causes

• Zollinger-Ellison syndrome is usually caused by a gastrinoma, a tumor of the pancreas, but may be associated with genetic mutations.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is based on measuring the level of gastrin hormone in the blood, examining the stomach and pancreas using radioisotope studies.

Treatment

Treatment may include removal of the tumor, use of proton pump inhibitors to reduce stomach acid, as well as chemotherapy and radiation therapy in case of metastases.

Prevention

Since Zollinger-Ellison syndrome is most often associated with a tumor, prevention involves regular screening and prompt treatment of malignant tumors.

Doctor

Treatment of this condition is usually carried out by a gastroenterologist or an oncologist-endocrinologist.