Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia Type-1 (MEN-1): Diagnosis and Treatment

How Do Doctors Diagnose MEN-1?

If your child is showing symptoms of MEN-1, one or more of the following are used to diagnose MEN-1:

• Review of the family history
• Physical exam to look for signs of excess hormone
• Blood tests to check hormone levels
• Various imaging tests to check for endocrine tumors
• MEN-1 genetic testing

What Treatments Are Available for MEN-1?

There is currently no cure for MEN1. Early diagnosis and treatment can help manage symptoms and remove tumors. Without proper treatment, MEN-1 can be life-threatening.

Common treatments for MEN-1 include:

• Surgery to remove endocrine tumors
• Medications to help reduce the production of prolactin and the size of tumors making prolactin
• Radiation therapy to shrink or eliminate certain tumors

In some cases, your child’s doctor may suggest waiting and watching for symptoms before recommending surgery, medications or radiation.

Rev. 5/2020. Mass General for Children and Massachusetts General Hospital do not endorse any of the brands listed on this handout. This handout is intended to provide health information so that you can be better informed. It is not a substitute for medical advice and should not be used to treatment of any medical conditions.