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Published on: June 16, 2020
[Respiratory manifestations of Marfan's syndrome]
M Neuville1, G Jondeau2, B Crestani1
1Service de pneumologie, département hospitalo-universitaire FIRE, centre de compétence pour les maladies pulmonaires rares, hôpital Bichat-Claude-Bernard, 75018 Paris, France.
Abstract:
Marfan's syndrome is a rare genetic disorder caused by a mutation of the gene FBN1, coding for the protein fibrillin-1. Cardiovascular, musculoskeletal and ophthalmic manifestations are the most commonly observed, but minor diagnostic criteria also include pulmonary manifestations. Pneumothorax, frequently relapsing, affects 5 to 11% of patients. Rib cage abnormalities (pectus excavatum or pectus carinatum) and apical blebs may contribute to their occurrence. Treatment does not require any specific procedure but there is an increased risk of recurrence. Pectus excavatum affects up to 60% of the patients, without any functional impairment in most cases. Surgery may be required (using the Nuss procedure) in case of cardiovascular or psychological symptoms. Marfan's syndrome is frequently associated with obstructive sleep apnoea, which may itself contribute to aortic dilatation. Some studies suggest a potential role of craniofacial abnormalities in the pathogenesis of sleep apnea in these patients. Pulmonologists should consider Marfan's syndrome when treating patients for recurrent spontaneous pneumothorax or rib cage abnormalities, since early detection of cardiac abnormalities improves the prognosis significantly.
Insights
Marfan syndrome, a genetic disorder from FBN1 gene mutations, commonly causes cardiovascular, musculoskeletal, and ophthalmic issues. Pulmonary problems like pneumothorax and sleep apnea also occur, requiring physician awareness for better patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Genetics and Molecular Biology
- Cardiology
- Pulmonology
Context:
- Marfan syndrome is a rare genetic connective tissue disorder caused by FBN1 gene mutations.
- While cardiovascular, musculoskeletal, and ophthalmic issues are common, pulmonary manifestations are also significant diagnostic criteria.
- Pulmonary complications include recurrent pneumothorax (5-11% of patients), rib cage abnormalities, and obstructive sleep apnea.
Purpose:
- To highlight the pulmonary manifestations of Marfan syndrome.
- To emphasize the importance of considering Marfan syndrome in patients with recurrent pneumothorax or rib cage abnormalities.
- To underscore the link between Marfan syndrome, sleep apnea, and potential aortic dilatation.
Summary:
- Marfan syndrome, due to fibrillin-1 protein deficiency, presents with diverse symptoms, including significant pulmonary issues.
- Recurrent pneumothorax and pectus deformities are notable in Marfan patients, with potential links to craniofacial abnormalities and sleep apnea.
- Early detection of cardiac involvement in Marfan syndrome is crucial for improving prognosis, with pulmonologists playing a key role.
Impact:
- Increased awareness among pulmonologists regarding Marfan syndrome can lead to earlier diagnosis and intervention.
- Recognizing the association between Marfan syndrome and sleep apnea may help manage cardiovascular risks, such as aortic dilatation.
- Understanding the full spectrum of Marfan syndrome manifestations, including pulmonary and sleep-related issues, can improve patient management and outcomes.
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