Zollinger-Ellison SyndromeUrgent

Gastroenterology · Ward Pathways · Free — no sign-in

Multiple / refractory ulcers, diarrhea

  1. First: Exclude persistent H. pylori as cause of failure
  2. Confirm: Serum gastrin (OFF PPI) elevated → secretin stimulation test
  3. Treat: High-dose PPI; localize (somatostatin-receptor imaging) → resect; screen for MEN-1

Order set

  • Fasting gastrin (off PPI)
  • Secretin stimulation
  • Ca (MEN1)
  • Somatostatin-receptor imaging

Criteria

AdmitComplication of refractory ulcers
DischargeAcid controlled, localisation/MEN1 workup
Clinical detail — differentials, red flags, pitfalls, disposition
Red flags
  • Refractory multiple ulcers
  • Diarrhoea + weight loss
Differentials
  • H. pylori PUD
  • PPI-induced hypergastrinaemia
  • Retained antrum
Common mistakes
  • Gastrin on PPI
  • Missing MEN1
Disposition & follow-up

High-dose PPI; localise/resect; MEN1 screening.

Discharge package
MedicationsHigh-dose PPI
Follow-upEndocrine/surgery; MEN1 screening
Warning symptomsRecurrent ulcers, bleeding, diarrhoea
💊 Treatment detail — doses & preparation
OmeprazolePPI
Dose20–40 mg OD 30 min before breakfast ×4–8 wk
Preparation20/40 mg capsules (MUPS dispersible for NG)
MonitorLong-term: Mg²⁺, B12, C. diff risk
Octreotidesomatostatin analogue
DoseVariceal bleed: 50 mcg IV bolus then 25–50 mcg/h ×2–5 d. Acromegaly: 100–200 mcg SC TDS or LAR 10–30 mg IM monthly
PreparationInfusion 500 mcg in 50 mL NS via pump; LAR depot deep IM gluteal
MonitorGlucose, gallstones, GI upset; in acromegaly — IGF-1
📖 NCCN Neuroendocrine TumoursReviewed July 2026

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