USMLE (United States Medical Licensing Examination) Step 1 Practice Exam

Which condition among MENs is associated with Medullary thyroid carcinoma, Pheochromocytoma, and mucosal neuromas?

1. MEN 1

2. MEN 2a

3. MEN 2b

4. Pseudopseudohypoparathyroidism

The correct answer is: MEN 2b

The condition associated with medullary thyroid carcinoma, pheochromocytoma, and mucosal neuromas is indeed MEN 2b. This syndrome is characterized by specific tumors and symptoms that clearly differentiate it from other multiple endocrine neoplasias. Medullary thyroid carcinoma is a hallmark of MEN 2, particularly MEN 2a and MEN 2b. However, in MEN 2b, this cancer occurs alongside pheochromocytomas, which are tumors of the adrenal gland that secrete catecholamines, leading to hypertension and other symptoms. Mucosal neuromas, which are nerve tissue tumors typically found in the oral cavity and other mucosal surfaces, are also a defining feature of MEN 2b. MEN 1, often referred to as Wermer's syndrome, is more associated with primary hyperparathyroidism, pancreatic endocrine tumors, and pituitary adenomas, lacking the specific combination present in MEN 2b. MEN 2a shares the medullary thyroid carcinoma and pheochromocytoma components but does not include mucosal neuromas, which are exclusively associated with MEN 2b. Lastly, pseudopseudohypoparathyroidism is related to different endocrine conditions and does not