Zollinger-Ellison syndrome
Zollinger-Ellison syndrome is a complex disease in which one or more tumors form in the pancreas and duodenum. These tumors are called gastrinomas They produce large amounts of the hormone gastrin, which causes an increased production of acid in the stomach Excess acid in turn causes stomach ulcers
Zollinger-Ellison syndrome is rare It can develop at any age, although it is more common between the ages of 30 and 50 In the treatment of Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, stomach acid-reducing and ulcer-healing medications are used.
The exact cause of Zollinger-Ellison syndrome is unknown The syndrome begins with one or more tumors in the pancreas, duodenum, or lymph nodes near the pancreas.
The pancreas is located behind and below the stomach It produces enzymes involved in food digestion The pancreas also produces many hormones, including gastrin, which regulates the production of stomach acid. Digestive juices from the pancreas, liver, and gallbladder come together in the duodenum. It is in this part of the intestine that food is digested most actively
Tumors developed in Zollinger-Ellison syndrome contain cells that produce large amounts of gastrin. In response to gastrin, the stomach produces excess acid, which in turn causes stomach ulcers and diarrhea.
The tumor can be malignant The tumor itself grows slowly, but it can spread to other parts of the body, more commonly to nearby lymph nodes or the liver.
Association with type I multiple endocrine neoplasia Zollinger-Ellison syndrome can be caused by a congenital condition called multiple endocrine neoplasia type I (MEN I). People with MEN I have multiple tumors in the endocrine system, including the pancreas They may also have tumors in the thyroid gland and pituitary gland About 25% of people with gastrinomas have them because of MEN I
Signs and symptoms of Zollinger-Ellis syndrome include:
- Abdominal pain
- Diarrhea
- Burning, pain, or discomfort in the upper abdomen
- Acid reflux and heartburn
- Nausea and vomiting
Talk to your doctor if you have been using acid-reducing medicines for a long time, such as omeprazole, cimetidine, famotidine or ranitidine. These medications can mask symptoms and delay diagnosis Early diagnosis and treatment are very important in Zollinger-Ellison syndrome
