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Marfan's Syndrome

Marfan's syndrome is an inherited disorder that causes problems in the connective tissues of the blood vessels, heart, and eyes, and affects the muscles, ligaments, bones, and tendons. People with Marfan's syndrome tend to be tall and thin with long arms, legs, fingers, and toes.

Because of problems with their connective tissues, people who have Marfan's syndrome are at risk of:

  • Aortic heart valve problems, including aortic dissection.
  • Eye problems, such as dislocation of the lens of the eye, which can lead to a serious eye condition called glaucoma.
  • A sleep disorder in which a person regularly stops breathing (sleep apnea) because of weak muscles in the throat.

Treatment for Marfan's syndrome includes treating specific problems related to the connective tissue disease, such as heart problems.

Last Revised: November 2, 2011

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: Rakesh K. Pai, MD, FACC - Cardiology, Electrophysiology & Stephen Fort, MD, MRCP, FRCPC - Interventional Cardiology

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