Marfan syndrome in Adult
Alerts and Notices
Synopsis

FBN1 is found throughout the body, explaining the numerous manifestations of the syndrome. The most commonly affected organ systems are the cardiovascular, skeletal, and ocular systems. These organ systems are particularly susceptible because they contain an abundant amount of FBN1. Common manifestations include hyperextensible joints, lens dislocation, skeletal abnormalities, and aortic aneurysms.
Cutaneous manifestations are less common, but striae distensae occur in two-thirds of patients. Inguinal or incisional hernias are also more commonly seen in affected individuals. Elastosis perforans serpiginosa is a rare cutaneous feature.
Marfan syndrome has an approximate incidence of 2-3 in 10 000 individuals worldwide without predilection for age, sex, or ethnicity. Clinical features become more apparent with increasing age.
Pediatric Patient Considerations:
This condition is difficult to diagnose in children as many features are age dependent.
Related topic: Cystic medial necrosis
Codes
ICD10CM:Q87.40 – Marfan's syndrome, unspecified
SNOMEDCT:
19346006 – Marfan syndrome
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Diagnostic Pearls
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Differential Diagnosis & Pitfalls
- MASS phenotype (mitral, aortic, skin, and skeletal) – Similar constellation of findings but does not fit diagnostic criteria for Marfan syndrome.
- Homocystinuria – Plasma homocysteine elevated, lens displaced downward.
- Loeys-Dietz aortic aneurysm syndrome – Similar systemic features but more severe aortic dissections, hypertelorism, broad or bifid uvula, and tortuous arteries.
- Ehlers-Danlos syndrome – Also associated with EPS and hyperextensible skin and joints; may present with poor wound healing and bruises; cardiac abnormalities are less common.
- Cutis laxa – Hyperextensible skin that remains loose when stretched; associated with pulmonary emphysema, bladder diverticula, and pulmonary artery stenosis.
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Therapy
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References
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Last Reviewed:12/19/2021
Last Updated:06/20/2022
Last Updated:06/20/2022