multiple endocrine neoplasia

Definition of multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2 syndrome

multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2 syndrome

(MUL-tih-pul EN-doh-krin NEE-oh-PLAY-zhuh ... SIN-drome)
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 neoplasia type 2 syndrome 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 neoplasia type 2 syndrome have an increased risk of medullary thyroid cancer, pheochromocytoma, and parathyroid gland cancer. Also called MEN2, MEN2 syndrome, and multiple endocrine adenomatosis type 2.

Source: NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms