[Marfan syndrome and related disorders]

Abstract

Marfan syndrome and related disorders describe a group of rare genetic diseases affecting connective tissue and characterised by cardiovascular, ocular and musculoskeletal manifestations. Marfan syndrome presents with a marfanoid habitus, ectopia lentis, dilatation of the aorta and typical musculoskeletal features. Other related disorders share similar characteristics. Loeys-Dietz syndrome distinguishes itself with generalized arterial tortuosities and aneurysms as well as, occasionally, hypertelorism and bifid uvula; patients with Beals syndrome have congenital articular contractures and craniofacial anomalies. Lujan-Fryns and Shprintzen-Goldberg syndromes, as well as homocystinuria, are often associated with intellectual disability.