Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome (ZES)
Description
Zollinger-Ellison syndrome (ZES) is a rare disorder caused by gastrin-secreting tumors (gastrinomas) in the pancreas or small intestine, leading to excess stomach acid production and severe peptic ulcers. It is sometimes linked to multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 (MEN1), a genetic disorder. Symptoms include: Severe, recurring stomach ulcers, abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting, Diarrhea, acid reflux, and unintentional weight loss. Doctors diagnose ZES using gastrin level tests, endoscopy, and imaging scans. Treatment includes proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) to reduce acid, and in some cases, surgical removal of tumors or chemotherapy.