Multiple endocrine neoplasia (MEN) syndromes are conditions that involve tumors in multiple endocrine glands.
These rare, inherited syndromes produce tumors in the thyroid, parathyroid, adrenal, pituitary and pancreas glands.
Tumors in MEN syndromes can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). The symptoms of MEN syndromes differ based on the type of disease a patient has and the glands involved. Affected glands may produce excess amounts of hormones, resulting in a variety of symptoms.
Genetic testing is recommended for people whose family members have been diagnosed with MEN syndromes. MEN syndromes are considered a dominant inherited trait, meaning they are more easily passed through families. Management of any MEN syndrome requires a team of doctors from different specialties with experience in these disorders. Specialists in endocrine surgery at Washington University can work with you to find the best solution for your conditions.
Conditions
MEN-1
MEN-1 causes people to develop tumors of two or more of the following glands: pituitary, thyroid, parathyroid, adrenal, or pancreas. Almost all people with MEN-1 have tumors of the parathyroid glands, and many others have tumors of the pancreas. It is less common for the pituitary to be involved, and even fewer people have tumors in the thyroid or adrenal glands with MEN-1.
MEN-2A
MEN-2A, or Sipple syndrome, is caused by a defective gene, which regulates growth of endocrine tissues. Patients with MEN-2A develop tumors in two or three of the following glands, in order of highest frequency: thyroid gland (medullary thyroid cancer), adrenal glands and parathyroid glands.
MEN-2B
Patients with MEN-2B have tumors of the thyroid (medullary thyroid cancer), pheochromocytomas in the adrenal glands and growths around the nerves referred to as neuromas. People with MEN-2B rarely have hyperparathyroidism. These patients can have tumors in the mouth and spinal abnormalities, such as unusual spinal curvature.
Our Expertise
Researchers and doctors at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis were among the first in the world to identify the causes of MEN syndromes. We created nationally accepted guidelines for treating these conditions, and our surgeons have been leaders in this area ever since. Because of this history and our ongoing commitment to treating MEN syndromes, our team is highly experienced in taking care of people with these conditions.