Breast and endocrine surgery mnemonic

Components of MEN 2A syndrome

The mnemonic

Medullary, Phaeo, Parathyroid

What each word stands for

  • MedullaryMedullary carcinoma of the thyroid
  • PhaeoPhaeochromocytoma
  • ParathyroidParathyroid hyperplasia causing hyperparathyroidism
  • RETCausative proto-oncogene mutation

Why it matters clinically

Guides screening of relatives and the need to exclude phaeochromocytoma before thyroid surgery.

Where it stops being reliable

Does not cover MEN 1 (3 Ps) or MEN 2B (mucosal neuromas, marfanoid habitus), which differ.

Teaching aid, still awaiting independent review. Confirm facts in a standard source.

More mnemonics

Common questions

What is the Breast and endocrine surgery mnemonic?

Medullary, Phaeo, Parathyroid. It helps you recall: Components of MEN 2A syndrome.

What does "Medullary" stand for?

Medullary carcinoma of the thyroid

What does "Phaeo" stand for?

Phaeochromocytoma

What does "Parathyroid" stand for?

Parathyroid hyperplasia causing hyperparathyroidism

What are all the parts of the Medullary, Phaeo, Parathyroid mnemonic?

Medullary: Medullary carcinoma of the thyroid; Phaeo: Phaeochromocytoma; Parathyroid: Parathyroid hyperplasia causing hyperparathyroidism; RET: Causative proto-oncogene mutation.

Which topic does this mnemonic belong to?

It belongs to Breast and endocrine surgery in General Surgery.

Where does this mnemonic stop being reliable?

Does not cover MEN 1 (3 Ps) or MEN 2B (mucosal neuromas, marfanoid habitus), which differ.

How is this useful clinically?

Guides screening of relatives and the need to exclude phaeochromocytoma before thyroid surgery.

How do I make this mnemonic stick?

Say it aloud, write it from memory tomorrow, then again in a week. Then test yourself on a General Surgery question about Breast and endocrine surgery.

Is this a standard mnemonic?

It is a teaching aid written or adapted by our team. Some resemble ones students share informally. Check any fact that matters in a standard source.