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Marfan syndrome is a heritable condition that affects the connective tissue. The primary purpose of connective tissue is to hold the body together and provide a framework for growth and development. In Marfan syndrome, the connective tissue is defective and does not act as it should. Because connective tissue is found throughout the body, Marfan syndrome can affect many body systems, including the skeleton, eyes, heart and blood vessels, nervous system, skin, and lungs.

Most people with Marfan syndrome have problems associated with the heart and blood vessels. Because of faulty connective tissue, the wall of the aorta (the large artery that carries blood from the heart to the rest of the body) may be weakened and stretch, a process called aortic dilatation. Aortic dilatation increases the risk that the aorta will tear or rupture, causing serious heart problems or sometimes sudden death. Sometimes, defects in heart valves can also cause problems. In some cases, certain valves may leak, creating a "heart murmur," which a doctor can hear with a stethoscope. Small leaks may not result in any symptoms, but larger ones may cause shortness of breath, fatigue, and palpitations (a very fast or irregular heart rate).

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Related Questions

When can you get marfan syndrome?

Anyone can get Marfans syndrome, it is a genetic disorder.


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Did Joey Ramone have Marfans?

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Is Marfan's symdrome a transmitted disease?

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Can marfans syndrome kill me?

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Does Michael Phelps have Marfans Syndrome?

According to an August 2008 article Phelps does not have Marfans Syndrome. Tests cleared Phelps of Marfan syndrome at the time, but doctors have urged vigilance and the American star still undergoes annual check-ups for the disease.Here is a link to full article: http://www.theage.com.au/news/swimming/does-a-genetic-flaw-make-phelps-great/2008/08/15/1218307227410.html


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What medical disease did Abraham lincon have?

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