Medical Health Encyclopedia

Marfan syndrome


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Marfan's syndrome
Marfan's syndrome
Pectus excavatum
Pectus excavatum
Overview Symptoms Treatment Prevention
Treatment

Vision problems should be treated when possible.

Take care to monitor for scoliosis, especially during adolescence.

Medicine to slow the heart rate may help prevent stress on the aorta. Avoid participating in competitive athletics and contact sports to avoid injuring the heart. Some people may need surgical replacement of the aortic root and valve.

People with Marfan syndrome should take antibiotics before dental procedures to prevent endocarditis. Pregnant women with Marfan syndrome must be monitored very closely because of the increased stress on the heart and aorta.


Support Groups

National Marfan Foundation -- www.marfan.org





Expectations (prognosis)

Heart-related complications may shorten the lifespan of people with this disease. However, many patients survive well into their 60s. Good care and surgery may extend the lifespan further.


Complications

Complications may include:


Calling your health care provider

Experts recommend genetic counseling for couples with a history of this syndrome who wish to have children.



Review Date: 05/10/2010
Reviewed By: Chad Haldeman-Englert, MD, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Section on Medical Genetics, Winston-Salem, NC. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org).

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