Is Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome Hereditary?
While Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome (ZES) itself is not considered a genetic disorder, there is a genetic condition called multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 (MEN 1) that can be passed down in families and increase the risk of developing ZES. MEN 1 causes the growth of tumors on the parathyroid glands and, in some cases, on the pituitary gland. Approximately 25% of individuals diagnosed with gastrinomas, which are associated with ZES, also have MEN 1.
Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome Treatment
Treating Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome typically involves various approaches depending on the severity of the condition. Surgery is often recommended when there is one tumor present, as it can effectively alleviate symptoms by reducing stomach acid production. However, if an individual has multiple tumors or if the tumors have spread to the liver, surgical intervention may not be feasible due to the small size and challenging detection of the tumors within the pancreatic tissue.
Fortunately, there are alternative treatment options available in such cases. Doctors may opt for embolization, a procedure in which the blood supply to the tumors is cut off or destroyed, thereby impeding their growth. Additionally, chemotherapy can be administered to slow down tumor growth or potentially eliminate a significant portion of the tumor if it has metastasized to the liver.