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The Marfan syndrome - features, natural history and treatment options - our experiences
J Kwiatkowska1, J Wierzba, R Pawlaczyk
1Gdansk Medical University, Department of Pediatric Cardiology and Congenital Heart Defect, Poland.
Abstract:
The Marfan syndrome (MFS) is one of the most common (1:3000-1:4000) heritable connective tissue disorders. It's still a rarely diagnosed syndrome, especially in childhood. Near all cases MFS results from mutations in the fibrillin-1 (FBN1) gene on chromosome 15q21.1, which encodes for the glycoprotein fibrillin. The FBN1 gene is a large protein that can cause more than 500 mutations and molecular examinations, finally confirming the diagnosis, are conducted extremely rare. We present prospective data concerning 66 patients with clinically-diagnosed MFS who have been controlled in Department of Pediatric Cardiology and Congenital Heart Diseases Medical University in Gdansk in 2000 - 2010. 29 patients (44%) had mitral valve regurgitations, 19 (29%) aneurysmal dilatation of the aorta, 13 (20%) had both these irregularities. In 7 cases (11%) diagnosis of mitral valve prolapse preceded appearance of an aneurysmal dilalation of the aortic bulb. During the observation 11 patients (17%) underwent cardiosurgical procedures for the sake of stopping crucial progressive mitral valve dysfunction and/or aneurysmal dilatation of the aortic bulb, which threatened with a rupture of aortic aneurysm. In 39 cases (59%) prophylactic treatment with beta - blockers was administered. The patients with MFS need a multidisciplinary system of care and the psychological supporting. The cardiosurgical treatment, which nowadays is bringing better results, due to the technological advancements is a new hope for this patient population.
Insights
Marfan syndrome (MFS), a genetic connective tissue disorder, frequently impacts the heart. Early diagnosis and multidisciplinary care, including beta-blockers and advanced cardiosurgery, improve outcomes for MFS patients.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Genetics
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Marfan syndrome (MFS) is a common heritable connective tissue disorder, often caused by FBN1 gene mutations.
- MFS is frequently underdiagnosed, particularly in pediatric populations.
- Cardiovascular complications are a primary concern in Marfan syndrome.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze cardiovascular manifestations in clinically diagnosed pediatric Marfan syndrome patients.
- To evaluate the effectiveness of current management strategies, including prophylactic treatment and cardiosurgery.
- To highlight the need for comprehensive, multidisciplinary care for Marfan syndrome.
Main Methods:
- Prospective data collection from 66 clinically diagnosed MFS patients over a 10-year period (2000-2010).
- Clinical assessment of cardiovascular abnormalities, including mitral valve regurgitation and aortic dilatation.
- Review of treatment interventions, such as beta-blocker therapy and cardiosurgical procedures.
Main Results:
- 44% of patients presented with mitral valve regurgitation, 29% with aortic dilatation, and 20% with both.
- Mitral valve prolapse preceded aortic root dilatation in 11% of cases.
- 17% of patients required cardiosurgery for progressive cardiovascular issues; 59% received prophylactic beta-blocker treatment.
Conclusions:
- Marfan syndrome necessitates a multidisciplinary approach, integrating specialized cardiac care and psychological support.
- Advances in cardiosurgery offer improved therapeutic options for severe cardiovascular complications in MFS.
- Timely intervention and ongoing monitoring are crucial for managing Marfan syndrome and preventing life-threatening events.
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