skip to main content

MEN2A — SCE Endocrinology MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

HardThyroidMEN2ASCE Endocrinology

A 27-year-old man has recurrent nephrolithiasis and a neck lump. Calcium is 2.82 mmol/L and PTH is elevated. Ultrasound shows a thyroid nodule; calcitonin is markedly raised and plasma normetanephrine is elevated. What is the underlying pathophysiology?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: C — Activating RET proto-oncogene mutation

Medullary thyroid cancer with phaeochromocytoma and hyperparathyroidism indicates MEN2A due to activating RET mutation. MEN1 more typically causes parathyroid, pancreatic neuroendocrine and pituitary tumours. The pearl is that MEN2 surgery sequence prioritises phaeochromocytoma management before thyroid surgery.

Reference: NICE NG230, ATA medullary thyroid carcinoma guideline