The Marfan syndrome
1Department of Human Genetics, MCP Hahnemann School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19102, USA. pyeritz@pgh.auhs.edu
Abstract:
The Marfan syndrome (MFS), initially described just over 100 years ago, was among the first conditions classified as a heritable disorder of connective tissue. MFS lies at one end of a phenotypic continuum, with people in the general population who have one or another of the features of MFS at the other end, and those with a variety of other conditions in between. Diagnosis of MFS and these other conditions remains based on clinical features. Mutations in FBN1, the gene that encodes fibrillin-1, are responsible for MFS and (in a few patients) other disorders in the continuum. In addition to skeletal, ocular, and cardiovascular features, patients with MFS have involvement of the skin, integument, lungs, and muscle tissue. Over the past 30 years, evolution of aggressive medical and surgical management of the cardiovascular problems, especially mitral valve prolapse, aortic dilatation, and aortic dissection, has resulted in considerable improvement in life expectancy.
Insights
Marfan syndrome (MFS) is a heritable connective tissue disorder caused by FBN1 gene mutations. Improved cardiovascular management has significantly increased life expectancy for MFS patients.
Area of Science:
- Genetics
- Cardiology
- Rheumatology
Background:
- Marfan syndrome (MFS) is a well-established heritable connective tissue disorder.
- It represents one end of a spectrum of related conditions, with varying clinical presentations.
- Diagnosis relies on clinical features, with FBN1 gene mutations identified as the cause.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide an overview of Marfan syndrome.
- To discuss the genetic basis and phenotypic spectrum of MFS.
- To highlight advancements in managing cardiovascular complications.
Main Methods:
- Clinical diagnosis based on characteristic features.
- Genetic analysis to identify FBN1 gene mutations.
- Review of medical and surgical management strategies for cardiovascular issues.
Main Results:
- FBN1 gene mutations are the primary cause of MFS.
- MFS affects multiple organ systems including skeletal, ocular, cardiovascular, skin, integument, lungs, and muscle.
- Aggressive management of cardiovascular problems has improved life expectancy.
Conclusions:
- Marfan syndrome is a complex genetic disorder with a wide phenotypic range.
- FBN1 mutations are central to MFS pathogenesis.
- Advances in cardiovascular care have substantially improved outcomes for individuals with Marfan syndrome.
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