What are multiple endocrine neoplasia syndromes?
Definition The multiple endocrine neoplasia (MEN) syndromes are three related disorders affecting the thyroid and other hormonal (endocrine) glands of the body. MEN has previously been known as familial endocrine adenomatosis. Description The three forms of MEN are MEN1 (Wermer’s syndrome), MEN2A (Sipple syndrome), and MEN2B (previously known as MEN3). Each is an autosomal dominant genetic condition which predisposes to hyperplasia (excessive growth of cells) and tumor formation in a number of endocrine glands. Causes and symptoms MEN1 patients experience hyperplasia or tumors of several endocrine glands, including the parathyroids, the pancreas, and the pituitary. The most frequent symptom of MEN1 is hyperparathyroidism. Overgrowth of the parathyroid glands leads to over secretion of parathyroid hormone, which leads to elevated blood calcium levels, kidney stones, weakened bones, and nervous system depression. Almost all MEN1 patients show parathyroid symptoms by age 40. Tumors of the
