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 syndromeCauses
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.
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