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Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia (MEN) II

Alternative Names

Sipple's syndrome

Treatment

Surgery is needed to remove both the medullary carcinoma of the thyroid and the pheochromocytoma. Medullary carcinoma of the thyroid must be treated with total removal of the thyroid gland and surrounding lymph nodes. Thyroid hormone replacement therapy is given after surgery.

Family members should be screened for the RET gene mutation.

Outlook (Prognosis)

Pheochromocytoma is usually benign (not cancerous), but the accompanying medullary carcinoma of the thyroid is a very aggressive and potentially fatal cancer. The good news is that early diagnosis and surgery can often lead to cure.

Possible Complications

A complication is the metastasis of cancerous cells.

When to Contact a Medical Professional

Call your health care provide if you notice symptoms of MEN II.

Review Date: 10/25/2006
Reviewed By: Robert Hurd, M.D., Department of Biology, College of Arts and Sciences, Xavier University, Cincinnati, OH. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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