Treatment of Zollinger–Ellison Syndrome
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Zollinger-Ellison syndrome is a disease that leads to the formation of tumors in the pancreas and duodenum. These tumors (gastrinomas) secrete a hormone (gastrin) that causes the stomach to produce too much acid, which can lead to peptic ulcers.
Someone suffering from Zollinger-Ellison syndrome may have one or several gastrinomas. According to WebMD, if a person has just one gastrinoma, there is a chance it is malignant. A single malignant gastrinoma can spread to other organs, making it extremely dangerous. People with Zollinger-Ellison syndrome may also develop tumors in the pituitary and parathyroid glands.
Zollinger-Ellison syndrome is generally considered to be a rare disorder. According to Medical News Today, this condition affects approximately one person in a million. It is more common among people aged 20-50, and slightly more prevalent in men. Although the exact cause of Zollinger-Ellison syndrome has not yet been identified, it is thought to be caused by a genetic predisposition or gene mutation. If a parent has Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, there is a 50% risk that the child will inherit this condition.
- Abdominal pain
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Weakness
- Fatigue
- Weight loss
- Burning sensation in the abdomen
- During a general examination, the doctor will ask the patient about their family’s medical history whether they have suffered from any of the symptoms, listed above.
- A blood test can establish whether gastrin levels are too high. This test may need to be repeated after some time, as the levels of gastrin may change.
- Imaging tests, such as an endoscopy, MRI or CT scan, can determine whether there are any tumors in the pancreas or duodenum. These tests can also rule out other conditions, which could be causing similar symptoms.
- Conservative treatment, including medications that control the acidity in the stomach, is likely to be the first course of action.
- Surgical resection, whereby tumors and peptic ulcers are removed, may also be necessary.
- Patients of this disorder need to be examined on a regular basis, to prevent the development of new tumors or peptic ulcers.
Authors: Dr. Vadim Zhiliuk, Dr. Sergey Pashchenko