“May all be happy, may all be healed, may all be at peace and may no one ever suffer."
Zollinger-Ellison syndrome (ZES) is a rare condition in which there is an overproduction of gastrin, a hormone that stimulates the stomach to produce acid. The excess acid can lead to the development of ulcers in the stomach and small intestine, as well as other symptoms.
ZES is caused by a tumor, usually in the pancreas or duodenum, that produces gastrin. These tumors are typically called gastrinomas, and they can be either malignant or benign. In some cases, multiple tumors may be present.
Symptoms of ZES include abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, weight loss, and acid reflux. Because ZES can lead to complications such as bleeding ulcers and perforation of the stomach or intestine, prompt diagnosis and treatment are important.
Diagnosis of ZES usually involves blood tests to measure the levels of gastrin, as well as imaging tests such as CT or MRI scans to locate any tumors. Endoscopy and biopsy may also be performed to examine the stomach and small intestine for signs of ulcers.
Treatment of ZES typically involves the surgical removal of any tumors that are found. Medications may also be prescribed to reduce acid production and relieve symptoms. In cases where the tumors are malignant, additional treatments such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy may be necessary.
Overall, the prognosis for ZES can vary depending on the extent of the disease and the effectiveness of treatment. With prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment, however, many people with ZES are able to manage their symptoms and maintain good quality of life.