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Endocrine glands

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Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia (MEN) II

Alternative Names: Sipple's syndrome Symptoms: Severe headache Heart palpitations Rapid heart rate Sweating Chest pain Abdominal pain Nervousness Irritability Loss of weight Diarrhea Cough Cough with blood Fatigue Back pain Increased urine output Increased thirst Loss of appetite Nausea Muscular weakness Depression personality changes The symptoms may vary, but are consistent with those of pheochromocytoma, medullary carcinoma of the thyroid, and sometimes hyperparathyroidism. Signs and tests: Text Continues Below Diagnosis depends on identification of mutation of the RET gene. This can be done with a blood test. A physical examination may reveal enlarged cervical lymph nodes. An examination of the thyroid may reveal a single or multiple thyroid nodules. The patient may have high blood pressure (sustained or episodic), rapid heart rate and fever. In MEN IIb, mucosal neuromas (benign tumors of the mucosa) may be present, as well as puffy lips and a prominent jaw. Diagnostic tests are also used to evaluate the function of each endocrine gland. These tests help confirm the diagnosis: Adrenal biopsy showing pheochromocytoma MIBG scintiscan showing tumor MRI of abdomen showing adrenal mass Abdominal CT scan showing mass Elevated urine metanephrine Elevated urine catecholamines Thyroid biopsy showing medullary carcinoma cells Ultrasound of the thyroid revealing nodule Thyroid scan showing cold nodule Elevated calcitonin Parathyroid biopsy showing tumor or hyperplasia Radioimmune assay of parathyroid hormone showing increased level Increased serum calcium Decreased serum phosphorus Possibly increased serum alkaline phosphatase Imaging of the kidneys or ureters showing calcification or obstruction ECG possibly showing abnormalities

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