1. The Cardiovascular System

The most serious problems associated with the Marfan syndrome involve the cardiovascular system. The two leaflets of the mitral valve may billow backwards when the heart contracts (mitral valve prolapse). This can lead to leakage of the mitral valve or irregular heart rhythm.

In addition, the aorta, the main artery carrying blood away from the heart, is generally wider and more fragile in patients with the Marfan syndrome.  This widening is progressive and can cause leakage of the aortic valve or tears (dissection) in the aorta wall. When the aorta becomes greatly widened, or tears, surgical repair is necessary.

2. The Skeleton

Skeletal manifestations common in people with the Marfan syndrome include curvature of the spine (scoliosis), abnormally shaped chest (pectus deformity), loose jointedness and disproportionate growth usually, but not always, resulting in tall stature.

3. The Eyes

People with the Marfan syndrome are often near-sighted (myopic). In addition, about 50 percent have dislocation of the ocular lens.

The Marfan syndrome is difficult to diagnose because there is no specific laboratory test for the condition. In addition, characteristics of the disorder vary greatly among affected individuals.  Most affected people do not have all of the possible signs and complications of the syndrome.
An accurate diagnosis of the Marfan syndrome can be assessed after a complete physical examination that focuses on the systems affected by the disorder. This includes:

• Echocardiogram, a sound wave picture of the heart by a cardiologist
• Slit-lamp eye examination by an ophthalmologist
• Skeletal examination by an orthopedist
• Complete family history

The identification in 1991 of the chromosome, gene and component of connective tissue (fibrillin) in which the mutation for the Marfan Syndrome is located offers great promise for the diagnosis of the condition.  It is hoped that as a better understanding of fibrillin is gained, earlier and more accurate diagnosis of the Marfan syndrome will be possible.

People affected by the Marfan Syndrome should be treated by a physician familiar with the condition and how it affects all body systems.  There is no cure for the disorder yet, but careful medical management can greatly improve the prognosis and lengthen the life span.
Every affected person should work closely with his/her physician(s) for their customized treatment plan.  However, in general, treatment includes the following:

• Annual echocardiogram to monitor the size and function of the heart and aorta
• Initial eye examination with a slit-lamp to detect lens dislocation, with periodic follow-up  with an ophthalmologist
• Careful monitoring of the skeletal system, especially during childhood and adolescence
• Beta-blocker medications may be prescribed to lower blood pressure and, consequently, reduce stress on the aorta
• Antibiotics may be prescribed prior to dental or genito-urinary procedures to reduce the risk of infection in people who experience mitral valve prolapse or who have artificial heart valves.  People who have had aortic surgery must take blood thinning medication.  They also need to take antibiotics by injection before dental work, and in other situations in which bacteria could enter the blood stream. (Guidelines for Endocarditis Prophylaxis for People with the Marfan Syndrome Who Have Had Cardiac Surgery, NMF Professional Advisory Board, June 1991)
• Lifestyle adaptations, such as the avoidance of strenuous exercise and contact sports, are often necessary to reduce the risk of injury to the aorta