Breast and endocrine surgery mnemonic

Components of MEN 1 (Wermer's syndrome)

The mnemonic

3 Ps

What each word stands for

  • ParathyroidHyperplasia or adenomas of the parathyroids
  • PituitaryPituitary adenomas such as prolactinoma
  • PancreasPancreatic endocrine tumours such as gastrinoma and insulinoma

Why it matters clinically

Parathyroid disease is usually the first manifestation, so multiple-gland disease should prompt screening.

Where it stops being reliable

The gene is MEN1 (menin), not RET, and the mnemonic gives no detail on tumour behaviour.

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

More mnemonics

Common questions

What is the Breast and endocrine surgery mnemonic?

3 Ps. It helps you recall: Components of MEN 1 (Wermer's syndrome).

What does "Parathyroid" stand for?

Hyperplasia or adenomas of the parathyroids

What does "Pituitary" stand for?

Pituitary adenomas such as prolactinoma

What does "Pancreas" stand for?

Pancreatic endocrine tumours such as gastrinoma and insulinoma

What are all the parts of the 3 Ps mnemonic?

Parathyroid: Hyperplasia or adenomas of the parathyroids; Pituitary: Pituitary adenomas such as prolactinoma; Pancreas: Pancreatic endocrine tumours such as gastrinoma and insulinoma.

Which topic does this mnemonic belong to?

It belongs to Breast and endocrine surgery in General Surgery.

Where does this mnemonic stop being reliable?

The gene is MEN1 (menin), not RET, and the mnemonic gives no detail on tumour behaviour.

How is this useful clinically?

Parathyroid disease is usually the first manifestation, so multiple-gland disease should prompt screening.

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.