Systemic pathology: endocrine mnemonic

Features of MEN 2A

The mnemonic

Medullary, Phaeo, Parathyroid

What each word stands for

  • MedullaryMedullary thyroid carcinoma
  • PhaeoPhaeochromocytoma
  • ParathyroidParathyroid hyperplasia

Why it matters clinically

RET mutation testing in a family allows prophylactic thyroidectomy.

Where it stops being reliable

MEN 2B has mucosal neuromas and a marfanoid habitus instead of parathyroid disease, and MEN 1 differs entirely.

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

More mnemonics

Common questions

What is the Systemic pathology: endocrine mnemonic?

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

What does "Medullary" stand for?

Medullary thyroid carcinoma

What does "Phaeo" stand for?

Phaeochromocytoma

What does "Parathyroid" stand for?

Parathyroid hyperplasia

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

Medullary: Medullary thyroid carcinoma; Phaeo: Phaeochromocytoma; Parathyroid: Parathyroid hyperplasia.

Which topic does this mnemonic belong to?

It belongs to Systemic pathology: endocrine in Pathology.

Where does this mnemonic stop being reliable?

MEN 2B has mucosal neuromas and a marfanoid habitus instead of parathyroid disease, and MEN 1 differs entirely.

How is this useful clinically?

RET mutation testing in a family allows prophylactic thyroidectomy.

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 Pathology question about Systemic pathology: endocrine.

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.