Endocrinology and Diabetes
Endocrine Tumor Syndromes
Our endocrinology specialists are highly trained in detecting and treating endocrine tumor syndromes. We’re here to help you manage your condition every step of the way.
Medically reviewed by Jose Joaquin Lado Abeal, M.D. on Oct. 15, 2024.
What Are Endocrine Tumor Syndromes?
Endocrine tumor syndromes are also called multiple endocrine neoplasia (MEN) syndromes. They are rare disorders caused by genetic mutations.
MEN syndromes can cause benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous) tumors to form on the glands in your body. The tumors can develop in infants, children or adults.
The UC Davis Health Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism has expertise in diagnosing and treating endocrine tumor syndromes. We work with partners from surgery, oncology, radiology and other specialties to provide complete care for your condition.
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Symptoms of Endocrine Tumor Syndromes
Endocrine tumors can develop on any gland in your body. The type of symptoms you have will depend on which glands develop tumors.
Common Symptoms
You may experience no symptoms. You could also experience mild or severe symptoms. Possible signs of endocrine tumor syndromes include:
- Abdominal pain
- Acid reflux
- Erectile dysfunction
- Fatigue
- Infertility
- Irregular periods
- Joint pain
- Mood changes
Emergency Symptoms
Seek immediate medical help if you have any of the following:
- Confusion
- Heart palpitations
- Increased thirst and need to urinate
- Persistent nausea and vomiting
- Severe headaches
- Vision changes
What Causes Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia Syndromes?
Genetic abnormalities cause MEN syndromes. Most of the time, you inherit a mutated gene from a parent. Sometimes, a genetic mutation can occur while you are in the womb.
Diagnosis of Endocrine Tumor Syndromes
To diagnose MEN syndromes, our providers will ask about your medical and family history and perform a medical exam. We may also recommend:
- Genetic tests, to check for a gene mutation
- Blood tests, to detect high hormone levels
- Imaging tests, to determine the location and size of any tumors
Our endocrinologists have specialized training and expertise in diagnosing endocrine tumor syndromes. Our state-of-the-art diagnostic tools ensure accurate test results.
Treatments of Endocrine Tumor Syndromes
There is no cure for MEN syndromes. Yet treatment can reduce or eliminate your symptoms and prevent serious complications.
The endocrinology team at UC Davis Health offers advanced treatment options for endocrine tumors. We collaborate with experts from related specialties to ensure you receive a complete treatment plan for even the most complex condition. Our treatments include:
Medicine
We prescribe medication to control symptoms of excess hormone production.
Monitoring
We may recommend monitoring your tumors if they are small and you don’t have symptoms. We will use blood tests and imaging tests to check for changes in tumor size or number.
Surgery
We may recommend surgery to remove a tumor or an affected gland.
Children of parents with the genetic mutation
1 in 2Develop the most common MEN syndrome (type 1)
Non-inherited MEN type 1 syndrome
10%People with MEN syndrome who developed a genetic mutation in the womb
Source: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases: Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia Type 1
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