Marfan's Syndrome

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Marfan's Syndrome


  • congenital disorder of connective tissue

Features

  • high-arched palate
  • span > height
  • arachnodactyly
  • risk of aortic dissection

Affects

  • heart
    • aortic aneurysm
    • aortic dissection
    • mitral valve prolapse
  • eye
    • dislocated lenses
    • retinal detachment
  • skeleton
    • tall, thin body
    • long arms, legs and fingers
    • scoliosis
    • pectus deformity

Measurement

  • beta-blockers slow progression of aortic dilatation
  • life style advice
    • avoidance of high exertion sports
    • sedentary jobs
  • yearly echocardiograms until aorta >4.5cm
    • 6-monthly 4.5-5 cm
    • >5 cm → surgeons
  • pregnancy
    • avoid if aorta over 4 cm with aortic regurgitation
    • caesarian section at 39 weeks preferred
    • beta-blockers safe
  • genetic counselling
    • 50-50 chance of inheritance
    • 25% new mutations
 

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