What is Zollinger Ellison Syndrome

Zollinger Ellison Syndrome is a rare condition characterized by the development of tumors called gastrinomas in the pancreas or duodenum. These tumors produce excessive amounts of a hormone called gastrin, which stimulates the stomach to produce excessive amounts of acid.

As a result, individuals with Zollinger Ellison Syndrome experience severe and recurrent peptic ulcers in the stomach and small intestine. These ulcers can cause symptoms such as abdominal pain, heartburn, nausea, vomiting, and gastrointestinal bleeding.

The excessive acid production in Zollinger Ellison Syndrome can also lead to complications like perforation or obstruction of the digestive tract. Additionally, the increased acid levels can cause damage to the esophagus, leading to a condition called gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

Diagnosis of Zollinger Ellison Syndrome involves blood tests to measure gastrin levels, imaging studies to locate the tumors, and sometimes endoscopy to examine the digestive tract. Treatment typically involves medications to reduce stomach acid production, such as proton pump inhibitors, and surgical removal of the tumors if possible.