endocrine and metabolic disorders
Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia, Type 2A (MEN 2A)
Key Points
Most patients with multiple endocrine neoplasia, type 2A have medullary thyroid carcinoma, typically beginning in childhood. Other manifestations are those of hormone excess, particularly hypertension due to pheochromocytoma and hypercalcemia due to hyperparathyroidism. Patients should have genetic testing forRETproto-oncogene mutations and clinical evaluation for other tumors of the syndrome. Tumors are excised when possible, beginning with any pheochromocytoma. Prophylactic thyroidectomy is recommended; timing of the surgery may be influenced by the specific mutation. 