Zollinger-Ellison syndrome

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Definition
Symptoms
Causes

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Tests and diagnosis
Treatments and drugs

Definition

Zollinger-Ellison syndrome is a complex condition in which one or more tumors form in your pancreas or in the upper part of your small intestine (duodenum). These tumors secrete large amounts of a hormone that causes excessive production of acid by your stomach. The excess acid, in turn, leads to peptic ulcers.

Zollinger-Ellison syndrome is rare. In the United States, less than 1 percent of duodenal ulcers result from Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. The disease may occur at any time in life, but the average age at diagnosis is 50.

Treatment for Zollinger-Ellison syndrome most often consists of medications to reduce acid and heal the ulcers. Surgery to remove the tumors may be an option for some people with Zollinger-Ellison syndrome.

Symptoms