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multiple endocrine adenomatosis type 2

(MUL-tih-pul EN-doh-krin A-deh-NOH-muh-TOH-sis ...)
A rare, genetic disorder that affects the endocrine glands and can cause tumors in the thyroid gland, parathyroid glands, and adrenal glands. The affected endocrine glands may make high levels of hormones, which can lead to other medical problems such as high blood pressure and kidney stones. Multiple endocrine adenomatosis type 2 is caused by a mutation (change) in a gene called RET, and is divided into three subtypes (MEN2A, MEN2B, and FMTC). People with all subtypes of multiple endocrine adenomatosis type 2 have an increased risk of medullary thyroid cancer, pheochromocytoma, and parathyroid gland cancer. Also called MEN2, MEN2 syndrome, and multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2 syndrome.
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Drawing shows parts of the body affected by MEN2 syndrome, including the thyroid gland, parathyroid glands, and adrenal gland. There are also two insets: one showing the back view of the thyroid gland with the four pea-sized parathyroid glands, and the other showing the inner part of the adrenal gland called the adrenal medulla.Enlarge this image in new window
Multiple endocrine neoplasia 2 (MEN2) syndrome is a rare, inherited disorder that affects the endocrine glands or organs. MEN2 syndrome usually causes thyroid gland, parathyroid gland, or adrenal gland tumors. The tumors may be benign (not cancer) or malignant (cancer).
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