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Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia (MEN) II

Definition:

Multiple endocrine neoplasia II (MEN II) is an uncommon condition passed down through families (inherited) marked by overactivity of the thyroid, adrenal, and parathyroid glands.

Alternative Names:

Sipple's syndrome

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

The cause of MEN II is a defect in a gene called RET. This defect causes many tumors to appear in the same person, but not necessarily at the same time. The type of adrenal tumor is a pheochromocytoma , and the thyroid tumor is a medullary carcinoma of the thyroid .

The disorder may occur at any age, and affects men and women equally. The main risk factor is a family history of MEN II.

Endocrine glands

Endocrine glands

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