Definition

Multiple endocrine neoplasia (MEN) type I is a disease in which one or more of the endocrine glands are overactive or forms a tumor. It is passed down through families.

Endocrine glands most commonly involved include:

• Pancreas
• Parathyroid
• Pituitary

Alternative Names

Wermer syndrome; MEN I

Causes

MEN I is caused by a defect in a gene that carries the code for a protein called menin. The condition causes tumors of various glands to appear in the same person, but not necessarily at the same time.

The disorder may occur at any age, and it affects men and women equally. A family history of this disorder raises your risk.

Symptoms

Symptoms vary from person to person, and depend on which gland is involved. They may include:

• Abdominal pain
• Anxiety
• Black, tarry stools
• Bloated feeling after meals
• Burning, aching, or hunger discomfort in the upper abdomen or lower chest that is relieved by antacids, milk, or food
• Decreased sexual interest
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Lack of menstrual periods (in women)
• Loss of appetite
• Loss of body or facial hair (in men)
• Mental changes or confusion
• Muscle pain
• Nausea and vomiting
• Sensitivity to the cold
• Unintentional weight loss
• Vision problems
• Weakness

Exams and Tests

The health care provider will perform a physical exam and ask questions about your medical history and symptoms. The following tests may be done:

• Blood cortisol level
• CT scan of the abdomen
• CT scan of the head
• Fasting blood sugar
• Genetic testing
• Insulin test
• MRI of the abdomen
• MRI of the head  
• Serum adrenocorticotropic hormone
• Serum calcium
• Serum follicle stimulating hormone
• Serum gastrin
• Serum glucagon
• Serum luteinizing hormone
• Serum parathyroid hormone
• Serum prolactin
• Serum thyroid stimulating hormone
• Ultrasound of the neck

Treatment

Surgery to remove the diseased gland is often the treatment of choice. Medicines such as cabergoline and bromocriptine may be used instead of surgery for pituitary tumors that release the hormone prolactin.

The parathyroid glands, which control calcium production, can be removed. However, it is difficult for the body to regulate calcium levels without these glands, so a total parathyroid removal is not done first in most cases.

Medicine is available to decrease the excess stomach acid production caused by some tumors (gastrinomas), and to reduce the risk of ulcers.

Hormone replacement therapy is given when entire glands are removed or do not produce enough hormones.

Outlook (Prognosis)

Pituitary and parathyroid tumors are usually noncancerous (benign), but some pancreatic tumors may become cancerous (malignant) and spread to the liver. These can lower life expectancy.

The symptoms of peptic ulcer disease, low blood sugar, excess calcium in the blood, and pituitary dysfunction usually respond well to appropriate treatment.

Possible Complications

The tumors can keep coming back. Symptoms and complications depend on which glands are involved. Regular check-ups by your provider are essential.

When to Contact a Medical Professional

Contact your provider if you notice symptoms of MEN I or have a family history of this condition.

Prevention

Screening close relatives of people affected with this disorder is recommended.

References

National Comprehensive Cancer Network website. Clinical practice guidelines in oncology (NCCN guidelines): neuroendocrine and adrenal tumors. Version 1.2023. www.nccn.org/professionals/physician_gls/pdf/neuroendocrine.pdf. Updated August 2, 2023. Accessed May 7, 2024.

Newey PJ, Thakker RV. Multiple endocrine neoplasia. In: Melmed S, Auchus RJ, Goldfine AB, Koenig RJ, Rosen CJ, eds. Williams Textbook of Endocrinology. 14th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2020:chap 42.

Newey PJ, Thakker RV. Multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1. In: Robertson RP, ed. DeGroot's Endocrinology. 8th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2023:chap 133.

Nieman LK, Spiegel AM. Polyglandular disorders. In: Goldman L, Cooney KA, eds. Goldman-Cecil Medicine. 27th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2024:chap 212.