Multiple endocrine neoplasia applies to several types of cancer of the endocrine system, which can be inherited. The result is overactivity and enlargement of certain endocrine glands, specifically the adrenal, parathyroid, pancreas and pituitary.
MEN was first discovered in 1954, and there are now several identified types, MEN 1, MEN 2a and MEN 2b. MEN is known to be associated with several types of cancer: an adrenal malignancy called pheochromocytoma; a pancreatic cancer known as islet cell carcinoma; parathyroid cancer and medullary thyroid cancer.
All three types of MEN are usually inherited. However, people who do not inherit one of the genes for MEN can still develop the disorder.
Endocrine Glands
The thyroid is below the Adam's apple and just above the breastbone. It is u-shaped and has two lobes, one on either side of the windpipe. The human body has four parathyroid glands, which are located close to the thyroid gland in the front of the neck. The parathyroids release parathyroid hormone, which helps maintain a normal supply of calcium in the blood, bones and urine. The pancreas is a pear-shaped organ located behind the stomach.
It releases a hormone called insulin, which regulates how the body uses food. The pituitary gland is a pea-sized organ in the center of the brain, just behind the nose. It releases hormones that control growth and development. The adrenal glands are small organs located above the kidneys. They help control the metabolism of protein, fat and carbohydrates and regulate the amount of sodium and potassium in body fluids.
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