Gastrinoma

Gastrinoma

Gastrinoma: Tumors that Cause Abnormally High Gastric Acid

What is this disease?
Gastrinoma is a special type of tumor that overproduces a hormone called gastrin. This causes the stomach to secrete excessive amounts of acid, leading to ulcers in the stomach and small intestine. These are difficult to treat and recurring. This tumor typically occurs in the pancreas or duodenum, and is sometimes part of a genetic disorder called MEN1.

Causes
- Caused by abnormalities in hormone-producing cells
- Some cases are associated with the MEN1 gene
- Most tumors are malignant (cancer) and may spread to the liver or lymph nodes

Common Symptoms
- Frequent, chronic abdominal pain
- Persistent or recurring gastric or small intestine ulcers
- Chronic diarrhea
- Severe acid reflux
- Black stools or vomiting blood (If there is bleeding in the wound)
- Unexplained weight loss

Diagnosis
- Your doctor will use a combination of methods, such as:
- Blood test for gastrin levels (high levels may be a clear indication)
- Secretin stimulation test for confirmation
- Gastroscopy to examine the ulcer
- Imaging tests such as CT, MRI, or PET scan to detect tumors
- MEN1 gene test if there is a family history
- Treatment
- Strong antacids (Proton Pump Inhibitors – PPIs) to control symptoms
- Surgery if the tumor is localized and can be removed
- If the disease is advanced, treatment may include:
- Hormone-blocking drugs (such as octreotide)
- Targeted cancer therapy (chemotherapy)
- Liver treatment if the tumor has spread

Should or shouldn't:
-See a doctor if you have recurrent gastric ulcers or chronic diarrhea
-Keep regular checkups as scheduled
-Tell your family about your history of endocrine neoplasia (MEN1)
*Do not self-medicate with antacids for long periods of time without proper diagnosis. Chronic symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, or severe acid reflux should not be ignored.

Don't wait until complications such as bleeding or significant weight loss develop.

Summary
Gastrinoma is a tumor that causes the body to produce excessive acid, leading to difficult-to-treat gastrointestinal ulcers and potentially cancer. If you experience chronic symptoms, see a doctor immediately. Treatment options include antacid medications, surgery, and specialized cancer treatments, depending on the stage and severity of the disease.