Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome – Symptoms and Causes
What Is Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome?
Zollinger-Ellison syndrome occurs when tumors called gastrinomas develop in the pancreas or small intestine. These tumors release excessive amounts of gastrin, a hormone that triggers stomach acid production.
This excess acid often leads to peptic ulcers. People with this condition may also experience diarrhea and abdominal pain.
This rare condition can affect people at any age. However, it’s most commonly diagnosed between ages 20 and 50.
Doctors typically prescribe medications that reduce stomach acid to heal ulcers and manage symptoms. In some cases, surgery to remove the tumors may be necessary.
Key symptoms include:
- Stomach ulcers
- Abdominal pain
- Diarrhea
- Heartburn
Signs and Symptoms
People with Zollinger-Ellison syndrome may experience several uncomfortable symptoms:
- Heartburn and acid reflux
- Upper abdominal pain or discomfort
- Persistent diarrhea
- Stomach Ulcers
- Frequent burping
- Nausea and vomiting
- Digestive tract bleeding
- Unintentional weight loss
- Decreased appetite
These symptoms happen because the condition causes too much stomach acid production. This excess acid can damage the digestive tract lining and lead to uncomfortable symptoms.
When Medical Help Is Needed
It’s important to see a healthcare provider if you have ongoing burning or aching pain in your upper abdomen, especially when combined with nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. These symptoms might indicate a serious condition that needs medical attention.
Be sure to tell your doctor about any over-the-counter acid reducers you’ve been taking. These medications can hide important symptoms and delay getting the right diagnosis.
What Causes Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome
Zollinger-Ellison syndrome develops when tumors form in the pancreas or duodenum (the first part of the small intestine connected to the stomach). These tumors can sometimes appear in nearby lymph nodes as well.
While researchers haven’t identified the exact cause of this condition, they understand the sequence of events that leads to its symptoms.
The pancreas is located behind the stomach and produces important digestive enzymes and hormones like insulin, which regulates blood sugar.
The duodenum serves as a mixing area for digestive juices from the pancreas, liver, and gallbladder—making it a crucial site for digestion.
The tumors in Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, called gastrinomas, release excessive amounts of the hormone gastrin. This overproduction triggers the stomach to produce too much acid, which leads to peptic ulcers and sometimes diarrhea.
These gastrinomas often grow slowly but can be cancerous. When cancerous, they may spread to nearby lymph nodes or the liver.
Connection to Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia Type 1
About 25% of people with gastrinomas have them as part of an inherited condition called Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia Type 1 (MEN 1). This genetic disorder causes tumors to develop in multiple endocrine glands.
People with MEN 1 typically have:
- Tumors in the Parathyroid Glands
- Gastrinomas in the Pancreas or Duodenum
- Possible Tumors in the Pituitary Gland
MEN 1 patients may develop additional tumors in the pancreas and other organs throughout the body. When Zollinger-Ellison syndrome appears in someone with MEN 1, doctors need to consider the broader genetic condition during treatment planning.
Risk Factors
Having a family member with Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia type 1 (MEN 1) increases your chances of developing Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. This is especially true if the affected relative is a parent or sibling.
This genetic connection highlights the importance of knowing your family medical history.
