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How Do Doctors Diagnose Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome? Discover the Critical Tests Involved!
Published: Sep 19, 2024
Diagnosing Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome involves a series of specialized tests. Understanding these can help demystify the process and highlight the importance of accurate diagnosis.
The Role of Gastrin Levels
A key test for diagnosing ZES is measuring fasting serum gastrin levels. Elevated gastrin levels, especially when coupled with low stomach pH, are indicative of ZES. This test helps distinguish ZES from other conditions that cause similar symptoms.
Secretin Stimulation Test Explained
When gastrin levels are not definitive, a secretin stimulation test may be used. This test involves administering secretin to see if it causes a spike in gastrin levels, which is typical in ZES. It's a crucial step when initial tests are inconclusive.
Imaging Studies for Tumor Localization
Imaging tests such as CT scans, MRIs, or PET scans are used to locate gastrinomas once ZES is suspected. These scans help determine the exact location and size of the tumors, guiding treatment decisions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Through elevated gastrin levels and imaging tests.
A test to confirm ZES by checking gastrin response to secretin.
CT, MRI, and PET scans locate the tumors.
The Bottom Line
Accurate diagnosis of ZES relies on specialized tests and imaging studies.
References
- Berna MJ, Hoffmann KM, Long SH, et al. Serum gastrin in Zollinger-Ellison syndrome: II. Prospective study of gastrin provocative testing in 293 patients from the National Institutes of Health and comparison with 537 cases from the literature. evaluation of diagnostic criteria, proposal of new criteria, and correlations with clinical and tumoral features. Medicine (Baltimore) 2006; 85:331.
- Mendelson AH, Donowitz M. Catching the Zebra: Clinical Pearls and Pitfalls for the Successful Diagnosis of Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome. Dig Dis Sci 2017; 62:2258.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
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