hypersekretion

Hypersekretion refers to an abnormal increase in the production and release of substances by a gland or epithelial surface that exceeds physiological needs. The phenomenon can involve digestive secretions (gastric acid, pancreatic juice, saliva), airway mucous, sweat and sebaceous glands, or other secretory tissues. It may arise from higher stimulatory input (hormonal or neural), gland hyperplasia or neoplasia, inflammatory or infectious processes, or from impaired feedback mechanisms and obstruction.

Common clinical contexts include gastric hypersecretion, where gastrin or neural stimulation elevates acid output beyond what the duodenum can neutralize, as seen in gastrin-secreting tumors (Zollinger-Ellison syndrome) or severe gastritis; this can cause peptic ulcers and diarrhea. Mucous hypersecretion in the airways occurs in chronic bronchitis and some forms of asthma, contributing to productive cough and airway obstruction. Secretory diarrheal states arise when toxins or hormones increase intestinal chloride and water secretion, as in cholera or certain hormonal syndromes, leading to dehydration and electrolyte disturbance. Other examples include sebaceous or sweat gland hypersecretion, which may contribute to acne or hyperhidrosis.

Diagnosis relies on clinical context and targeted tests to identify the site and cause of excess secretion, including laboratory assays, imaging, endoscopy, and functional secretory tests. Treatment focuses on removing or counteracting the underlying cause and reducing secretion with specific therapies, such as antisecretory drugs for gastric hypersecretion or supportive care for secretory diarrhea.