1. Marfan Syndrome
Michele Scott
Period 3

2. Cause Caused by defect in a gene called Fibrillin-1
Fibrillin-1 play important role in the building of elastic tissue
Usually syndrome is inherited
30% of cases have no family history
Called sporadic cases
Result of new gene defect

3. Symptoms Effects mainly the lung tissue, aorta, eyes, and skin
Along with many symptoms
Many symptoms including the following:
A chest that sinks in or sticks out
Flat feet
Scoliosis
Hyptonia
Etc.
Approximately 0.02% of population have syndrome
Equally in all ethnicities and sexes

4. Treatment
With proper diagnoses and treatment life expectancy is in the early to mid 70’s
Without proper care its in the 40’s
These treatments include:
Medication
Regular echocardiograms of entire aorta
Surgery
Unfortunately there is no cure for this syndrome

5. Affects on Family Parents and siblings may feel angry, sad, and guilt
Even though they did not cause the Finrillin-1, for it is a gene defect
Families will also have to take more care of their family member with the syndrome
Lots of medical attention
Lots of medical bills/money

6. By learning about the Marfan Syndrome and other syndromes and diseases, I have learned that I am lucky, to be healthy, safe, and to have food and snacks…and to see people with this diseases and syndromes who can’t go through life with the same advantages as me makes me upset, almost angry. So when you have the chance to do something amazing like travel, or go bungee jumping…yea cool things. Or normal like going to the movies or playing outside, just take advantage of your advantages.

7. References http://www.niams.nih.gov/Health_Info/Marfan_Syndrome/