Related Terms

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Background

• Marfan syndrome, also called arachnodactyly, is a genetic disorder that causes the connective tissues to become weak and dysfunctional. These tissues, which include tendons, ligaments, cartilage, and bone, are important because they support the body and provide a framework for growth and development. Because connective tissues are found throughout the body, symptoms may develop in many body organs, including the eyes, bones, heart, blood vessels, skin, lungs, and nervous system.
• The severity of disease symptoms varies from mild to severe. For instance, Marfan syndrome can be life threatening if it affects the aorta, the main artery that carries blood from the heart to the rest of the body. In such cases, the disorder causes the walls of the aorta to become weak, increasing the chance that the artery will enlarge, tear, or rupture (break open). In other cases, patients may not experience any noticeable symptoms.
• Physical characteristics commonly associated with Marfan syndrome include a slender and tall body, loose joints, narrow face, and spinal or chest wall abnormalities, such as scoliosis. Some medical historians believe that Abraham Lincoln may have had Marfan syndrome, because he had many of these traits. However, Lincoln's physical features alone are not enough to determine whether he had the disorder.
• Researchers estimate that Marfan syndrome affects at least one out of 5,000 people in the United States.
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Risk Factors

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Causes

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Signs and Symptoms

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Diagnosis

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Complications

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Treatment

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Integrative Therapies

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Prevention

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Author Information

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References

Natural Standard developed the above evidence-based information based on a thorough systematic review of the available scientific articles. For comprehensive information about alternative and complementary therapies on the professional level, go to www.naturalstandard.com. Selected references are listed below.

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