Marfan Syndrome
Definition
Marfan syndrome is a rare genetic problem that affects the body’s connective tissue. Connective tissue supports and connects many of the body's structures. Marfan syndrome affects many systems in the body, such as the:
- Skeleton, especially the joints
- Heart and the aorta, which is the artery that leads from the heart
- Lungs
- Eyes
Interior of HeartCopyright © Nucleus Medical Media, Inc. |
Symptoms TOP
Problems range from mild to severe. It can affect one or many parts of the body. Some symptoms may happen at an early age. Others may happen later in life or worsen with age.
The problems a person will have depend on the parts of the body affected by Marfan syndrome. Some problems may be:
- Long arms, legs, and fingers
- A tall, thin body
- A chest that sinks in or sticks out
- Very flexible joints
- Stretch marks that are not related to weight gain or loss
- Vision problems
- Back pain
- Breathing problems
Diagnosis TOP
The doctor will ask about your symptoms and health history. You may also be asked about your family's medical history. A physical exam will be done. An eye exam may also be done. Marfan syndrome is hard to diagnose.
Heart function may be tested. This can be done with an echocardiogram.
Images of the body may be taken. This can be done with:
Treatment TOP
There is no cure. A person will need lifelong monitoring.
The goal of treatment is to manage symptoms. Choices are:
For the Heart and Blood Vessels
- Avoiding high intensity exercise
- Heart medicines, such as beta-blockers
- Surgery to repair or replace a defective heart valve or aorta
For the Eyes
- Eyeglasses or contact lenses to correct vision problems
- Eye surgery for severe problems
For the Bones TOP
Some people may need braces or surgery.
For the Back TOP
Exercise and medicine may be needed to ease back pain.
RESOURCES:
Family Doctor—American Academy of Family Physicians
http://familydoctor.org
National Marfan Foundation
http://www.marfan.org
CANADIAN RESOURCES:
Canadian Marfan Association
http://www.marfan.ca
College of Family Physicians of Canada
http://www.cfpc.ca
REFERENCES:
Marfan syndrome. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/marfan-syndrome. Accessed February 8, 2021.
Pepe G, Giusti B, et alS. Marfan syndrome: current perspectives. Appl Clin Genet. 2016 May 9;9:55-65.
What is Marfan syndrome? National Marfan Foundation website. Available at:
...(Click grey area to select URL)
Accessed February 8, 2021.
Last reviewed December 2020 by EBSCO Medical Review Board
James P. Cornell, MD
Last Updated: 2/8/2021