Ulnar Artery Aneurysm as a Late Sequela of Marfan Syndrome

Christopher J Goodenough1, Rana O Afifi2, Siddharth K Prakash3

  • 1Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic Surgery, University of Texas Health Sciences Center at Houston, Houston, TX.

Insights

Marfan syndrome, a genetic connective tissue disorder, can lead to arterial aneurysms. This case highlights an ulnar artery aneurysm in a Marfan syndrome patient, successfully treated with surgery.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiovascular Medicine
  • Genetics
  • Connective Tissue Disorders

Background:

  • Marfan syndrome (MFS) is an inherited connective tissue disorder caused by FBN1 gene mutations.
  • It leads to aortic and arterial aneurysms due to altered extracellular matrix composition.
  • Increased life expectancy in MFS patients allows for atypical manifestations.

Observation:

  • A 49-year-old male patient with known Marfan syndrome presented with an ulnar artery aneurysm.
  • This is an uncommon presentation of vascular involvement in MFS.

Findings:

  • The ulnar artery aneurysm was successfully treated by surgical excision.
  • Vein grafting was utilized for arterial reconstruction.

Implications:

  • This case expands the understanding of vascular manifestations in Marfan syndrome.
  • It underscores the importance of vigilance for peripheral arterial aneurysms in MFS patients.
  • Surgical management can be effective for these rare presentations.

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