Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia: The Enigma of MEN

Multiple endocrine neoplasia (MEN) is an array of tumors found in various endocrine glands throughout the human body. A wide spectrum of clinical manifestations accompanies this syndrome. The complexities of the glandular function and subtle development of symptoms can cause the diagnosis to be missed, and individuals with MEN can be an enigma to the care team. Appropriate differential diagnosis and assessment are critical for these individuals to receive optimal care. An interprofessional team of health care providers, including an endocrinologist and an advanced practice endocrine nurse, must work in concert to orchestrate a plan of care across the continuum. Those specialized nurses who encounter individuals with MEN in a critical care setting are positioned to support the patient, the family, and the care team through this maze of multiple endocrinopathies and tumors.