Early diagnosis of multiple endocrine neoplasia type IIa

We report on incidental findings during family screening of two kindreds with multiple endocrine neoplasia type IIa. Pheochromocytoma and medullary thyroid carcinoma of considerable size were detected. The results underline the importance of early diagnosis of the syndrome, since the afflicted may be almost or wholly asymptomatic. High resolution chromosome banding studies were carried out in both families, but no abnormality was found. Linkage analysis using DNA markers closely related to the chromosomal locus at chromosome 10 was carried out and was positive in two asymptomatic offspring of one family, whereas the markers were not informative in a second family. We recommend early linkage analysis for establishing the genetic status in offspring of multiple endocrine neoplasia type IIa families to identify for further screening those who are predicted to be gene carrier.