Multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2 (MEN 2)

Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia Type 2 (MEN 2)

Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia Type 2 (MEN 2) Treatment at Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City: A Comprehensive Guide

What Is Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia Type 2 (MEN 2)?

MEN 2 is a rare inherited disorder that affects the endocrine glands. These glands produce hormones that regulate many vital body functions, including growth, metabolism and reproduction.

There are two main types of MEN 2:

• MEN 2A: Affects the thyroid gland and the adrenal glands (suprarenal glands). It also increases the risk of pituitary tumours and phaeochromocytoma (a type of adrenal tumour)
• MEN 2B: Affects the same organs as MEN 2A, and is also associated with facial anomalies, such as a cleft lip or a tethered tongue

What Are the Symptoms of MEN 2?

Symptoms of MEN 2 vary depending on the subtype and the organs involved. Common symptoms include:

• Thyroid tumours: May cause hyperthyroidism, leading to symptoms such as fatigue, weight loss, a rapid heartbeat and sweating
• Adrenal tumours: May cause hypertension, sweating, a rapid heartbeat, headache and muscle weakness
• Pituitary tumours: May cause symptoms such as headache, impaired vision and loss of pituitary function
• Phaeochromocytoma: This cancer type may cause symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhoea and fatigue

Diagnosis?

MEN 2 is usually diagnosed through genetic blood tests. Imaging tests, such as ultrasound or positron emission tomography (PET), may also be used to identify endocrine tumours.

Treatment

There is no cure for MEN 2, but symptoms can be treated and controlled. Treatment at Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City (SSMC) usually includes surgery to remove tumours, medicines to regulate hormone levels, and radiotherapy or chemotherapy for cancer.

Why Choose SSMC?

SSMC provides comprehensive care for patients with MEN 2. The patient’s care team includes endocrinologists, oncological surgeons, genetic specialists and dietitians. The team works together to provide an individualised treatment plan for each patient.

The features of MEN 2 care at SSMC include:

• An experienced team: Physicians at SSMC have extensive experience in diagnosing and treating MEN 2
• The latest technologies: The hospital uses advanced technologies to diagnose and treat MEN 2, including advanced genetic testing and medical imaging
• Comprehensive care: SSMC provides comprehensive care for people with MEN 2, including medical therapy, surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, genetic counselling and nutrition
• A patient-centred approach: Focus on providing personalised care for each patient, taking into account their individual needs and goals

Contact Us

If you think you may have MEN 2, or if you are experiencing any symptoms of this disorder, it is important to see an endocrinology specialist. Your doctor can help determine whether you have MEN 2 and provide appropriate treatment.

For more information, please call SSMC on 800 7762 or schedule an appointment here.