Case study of a patient family with multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome. Evaluation of Stress levels.

Introduction: Multiple endocrine neoplasia (MEN) syndrome is a rare genetic disorder with a strong hereditary factor. Patients who have this specific disorder present particularly intense psychopathological symptoms. Since their relatives also develop this disorder, their psychological needs should also be studied. Aim: The aim of this research was to evaluate the stress of a patient with MEN syndrome and that of his brother. Method: The present qualitative research, which refers to a case study, examined the family of a patient with this specific genetic disorder. The interviews were carried out by the patient (a 28-year-old man) and his three years younger brother. For the collection of data relevant to stress a semi-structured guide of 10 questions was used. The research participants were informed about the anonymity and confidentiality of their participation and signed a consent document. The data analysis was carried out through thematic analysis. Results: The diagnosis of the disease causes a stress increase to both siblings, to the patient as well as to his brother, because of the possibility of the brother developing the disease, since it is hereditary. The chemotherapy procedure was a stressful experience for both siblings. Likewise, the fear about life and its quality in the future causes stress. Cognitive reevaluation and mutual support of family members were reported as ways to manage stress. The creation of a patients’ association from people suffering from MEN was also suggested. Conclusions: Patients with this specific syndrome and their relatives experience increased stress levels which are associated with the diagnosis of the disease, with the experience of the chemotherapy, and also with the fear about the future. Mutual support, cognitive reevaluation, and participation in associations seem to be satisfactory ways to manage stress. The need for family support in order to develop stress selfmanagement skills, as well as the need for primary health care support emerged from the present study.