Categories

• What is it?
• Symptoms
• Genetics
• Lungs
• Bones
• Eyes
• Cardiovascular System
• Central Nervous System
• Management/Therapy
• Organizations
• Personal Sites&Blogs
• Medical Disclaimer
• Ad disclaimer
  
• About
  

 

Organizations

• International Federation of Marfan Syndrome Organizations
• National Marfan Foundation
• Canadian Marfan Association
• Marfan Association UK
• Marfan Network Japan
• More National Organizations...

About Marfan Syndrome

What Is It?

You may not have heard of the term “Marfan Syndrome”, also known as MFS.  This rare disorder was discovered in 1896, by a French doctor named Antoine Marfan. It is an inherited connective tissue disorder that can affect many different parts of the body.  Connective tissue is made up of proteins that act like glue to support your bones, blood vessels, nervous system, skin and internal organs.  Individuals suffering from Marfan Syndrome have an abnormal biochemical makeup. The connective tissue in their bodies is not as stiff as it should be which affects the growth and development of their body.

 

Statistics

This rare disease affects men, women and children all over the world, regardless of their age, race or ethnic background. Studies show that at least 1 out of every 5,000 people worldwide have been diagnosed with Marfan Syndrome.  Approximately 60,000 to 200,000 Americans currently suffer from this disease.  The disease is usually hereditary, but this is not always the case.

 

 

Marfan Symptoms

Marfan Syndrome can often be difficult to diagnose because the symptoms can vary greatly.  Some individuals will display very few symptoms, whereas others with more severe cases may experience life-threatening complications.  Some individuals will display symptoms at birth.  Others may not develop noticeable symptoms until much later in life.

Most people with Marfan Syndrome are taller than normal.  Males can often reach at least 6’5” and most females are taller than 6 feet. Individuals with this disorder usually have abnormally long arms and legs that are out of proportion to the rest of their body.  They often have long, thin fingers and toes and very flexible joints. 

Another characteristic of Marfan Syndrome is a long, narrow face and a small jaw. The roof of the mouth may be high and crowded teeth are common. Many individuals have hunched shoulders, a curved spine or backbone and flat feet.  Their breastbone is often deformed and either caves in or sticks out. Stretch marks on the skin and hernias are also very common and almost every person with Marfan Syndrome experiences eye problems.

Most individuals with Marfan Syndrome suffer from heart abnormalities. However, they may also experience problems with their lungs, blood vessels, nervous system and spinal cord.  The connective tissue within their bodies will often bulge, weaken or even tear.