Latent familial multiple endocrine neoplasia in Tasmania.

The largest-known family tree of a kindred with multiple endocrine neoplasia type I, dating back to 1840, has been constructed in Tasmania. There are over 600 descendants of one English migrant and his spouse living today. Preliminary data suggests that overall, one-quarter of all family members, and one-half of those above the age of 40 manifest one or more endocrine tumours. In the majority of cases, the diagnosis was not suspected until the general practitioner was informed of the family history, as the symptoms are vague, sometimes bizarre, and overlap with those of common disorders.