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Contents
  • What Causes ZES?
  • Symptoms and Diagnosis
  • Treatment Options

What Is Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome and How Is It Managed?

What Is Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome and How Is It Managed?

Understanding ZES

Zollinger-Ellison syndrome (ZES) is a rare condition caused by gastrin-secreting tumors leading to excessive stomach acid. Here's how it's diagnosed and managed.
Contents
  • What Causes ZES?
  • Symptoms and Diagnosis
  • Treatment Options

What Causes ZES?

ZES is caused by tumors known as gastrinomas, which secrete excessive amounts of the hormone gastrin. This leads to increased stomach acid production, resulting in peptic ulcers and other digestive issues. Some cases are linked to a genetic condition called multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 (MEN 1).

Symptoms and Diagnosis

Common symptoms include abdominal pain, diarrhea, and heartburn. Diagnosis typically involves measuring gastrin levels and imaging tests like CT or MRI scans. These tests help identify tumors and assess the extent of the condition.
Zollinger-Ellison syndrome (ZES) is a rare condition caused by gastrin-secreting tumors, leading to excessive stomach acid production and associated digestive issues.

Treatment Options

Treatment often involves medications like proton pump inhibitors to reduce stomach acid. Surgery may be considered if tumors are localized and resectable. In cases of metastatic disease, additional therapies may be necessary.

FAQs

What causes Zollinger-Ellison syndrome?

ZES is caused by gastrin-secreting tumors called gastrinomas.

How is ZES diagnosed?

Diagnosis involves measuring gastrin levels and imaging tests.

What are common ZES symptoms?

Symptoms include abdominal pain, diarrhea, and heartburn.

Can ZES be cured?

Treatment can manage symptoms, but a cure isn't always possible.

The Bottom Line

ZES is a complex condition requiring a tailored management approach.
Reach out to Doctronic to learn more about managing Zollinger-Ellison syndrome.
Additional References
  1. Rossi RE, Elvevi A, Citterio D, et al. Gastrinoma and Zollinger Ellison syndrome: A roadmap for the management between new and old therapies. World J Gastroenterol 2021; 27:5890.
  2. Norton JA, Fraker DL, Alexander HR, et al. Surgery increases survival in patients with gastrinoma. Ann Surg 2006; 244:410.
  3. Metz DC, Pisegna JR, Fishbeyn VA, et al. Control of gastric acid hypersecretion in the management of patients with Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. World J Surg 1993; 17:468.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.