Zollinger-Ellison syndrome

Zollinger-Ellison syndrome (ZES) is a rare condition caused by one or more neuroendocrine tumors called gastrinomas that produce excessive amounts of the hormone gastrin. High gastrin levels stimulate the stomach to produce too much gastric acid, which can lead to severe or recurrent peptic ulcers in the stomach and small intestine, gastroesophageal reflux, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. Gastrinomas most commonly occur in the duodenum (the first part of the small intestine) or pancreas and may be benign or malignant. Some cases are associated with a genetic condition called multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 (MEN1). Diagnosis may involve measuring fasting gastrin levels, stomach acid testing, imaging studies, and tumor localization. Treatment focuses on controlling acid production, usually with proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), and managing or removing gastrin-producing tumors when appropriate.

Zollinger-Ellison syndrome is a rare condition where a tumor makes too much gastrin, a hormone that tells the stomach to produce acid. Too much acid can cause repeated ulcers, stomach pain, heartburn, and diarrhea.

• Rare condition caused by gastrin-producing tumors called gastrinomas • Gastrinomas are a type of neuroendocrine tumor • Causes excessive production of stomach acid (gastric acid) • Can lead to recurrent or severe peptic ulcers • Symptoms may include abdominal pain, heartburn, diarrhea, nausea, and digestive problems • Tumors commonly occur in the duodenum or pancreas • Some cases are linked to multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 (MEN1) • Diagnosis may include gastrin blood tests, acid measurement, and imaging studies • Treatment often includes proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) to reduce acid production and treatment of the underlying tumor