Ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm repair in pediatric Marfan syndrome patient

Joyce J Lu1, Jason D Slaikeu1, Peter Y Wong1

  • 1Vascular Surgery, Michigan State University/Grand Rapids Medical Education Partners, Grand Rapids, Mich.

Insights

Marfan syndrome can cause rare abdominal aortic aneurysms in children. This case report details the successful surgical repair and recovery of a pediatric patient with a ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiovascular Medicine
  • Genetics
  • Pediatric Surgery

Background:

  • Marfan syndrome is an autosomal dominant genetic disorder affecting connective tissue, primarily due to FBN1 gene mutations.
  • Aortic degeneration, including dissection and ascending aortic aneurysms, is a well-documented complication of Marfan syndrome.
  • Abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs) and their occurrence in pediatric populations with Marfan syndrome are rarely reported.

Observation:

  • This case report focuses on a pediatric patient diagnosed with Marfan syndrome.
  • The patient presented with a ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm, a rare manifestation in this demographic.
  • The condition required immediate and complex surgical intervention.

Findings:

  • Successful open surgical repair of the ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm was performed.
  • The pediatric patient with Marfan syndrome experienced a full recovery post-surgery.
  • This case highlights the possibility of severe aortic complications beyond the ascending aorta in pediatric Marfan syndrome.

Implications:

  • This case underscores the importance of considering rare aortic pathologies, such as abdominal aortic aneurysms, in pediatric patients with Marfan syndrome.
  • Early diagnosis and prompt surgical management are crucial for favorable outcomes in these complex cases.
  • Further research into the prevalence and management of non-ascending aortic aneurysms in pediatric Marfan syndrome is warranted.

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