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Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia
Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia
Endocrine glands
Definition:
Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia (MEN) I is a hereditary disorder in which one or more of the
following glands develop excess normal tissue (hyperplasia) or adenoma (tumor): the
parathyroid, the pancreas, the pituitary, and (rarely) the adrenals and thyroid gland.
These are all endocrine glands, which produce and secrete hormones into the blood or lymph
systems.
Alternative Names:
Wermer's syndrome
Causes, incidence, and risk factors:
The cause of MEN I is genetic. Tumors of various glands appear in the same person, but not
necessarily at the same time. The disorder is inherited, may occur at any age, and affects men
and women equally.
Most people affected with this syndrome seek medical treatment because of one of the
following: peptic ulcer disease, symptoms related to low blood sugar, symptoms related to high
serum calcium levels or kidney stones, or symptoms related to pituitary problems (such as
headache).
Risk factors are a family history of this disorder, a previous pituitary tumor, and a history of
Zollinger-Ellison syndrome.
Symptoms:
Symptoms vary greatly from person to person and may be related to peptic ulcer disease,
hypoglycemia, hypercalcemia, or pituitary dysfunction.
Abdominal pain
Burning, aching, or hunger discomfort in the upper abdomen or lower chest that is
relieved by antacids, milk, or food
Weakness
Headache
Vision problems
Loss of coordination
Anxiety
Loss of appetite
Muscle pain
Fatigue
The following hormone levels may also be measured to evaluate the pituitary:
Serum thyroid stimulating hormone (rarely used)
Cortisol