What do you know about Marfan Syndrome? Quiz

Answer: Connective tissues

Marfan syndrome affects the connective tissues within the body. While these tissues are found in the heart, they are also found in the eyes, lungs, and nervous system, among others.

Answer: Heredity

The National Marfan Foundation estimates that approximately 1 in 5,000 people in the U.S. has Marfan Syndrome. It affects males and females of all races in equal numbers.

Answer: All of these

I have all of these and more. How many people can reach their arm behind their back and touch the bottom of their neck? I can. My fingers also bend back more than 90 degrees.

Answer: False

There is no cure but, with proper medical care and lifestyle changes, one can lead a highly productive and long life.

Answer: Heart problems

Connective tissues are found in the valves in the heart and keep the blood vessels intact. Aortic dissection (where the layers of the main artery in the body separate) is especially dangerous.

Answer: 1896

A French pediatrician named Antoine Marfan first wrote about it after examining a 5-year-old girl who had extremely long arms and legs. Like many medical conditions, it is still being studied around the world.

Answer: True

As crazy as it may seem, this is true. Weak heart valves are especially prone to infections. People with Marfan Syndrome are usually given antibiotics after any kind of surgery, and sometimes even after routine dental exams.

Answer: All of these people

Lincoln is only speculated to have had it. Hyman helped the U.S. Olympic Volleyball Team win a silver medal in 1984. No one (not ever her) knew she had it, until after she collapsed and died during a game. Hexter, director of the movie "Dadetown," died at the age of 27 of an aortic dissection.

Answer: Full physical with a variety of specific tests

There is no laboratory test and genetics testing is very expensive. Several doctors are involved and the tests usually include an EKG, several X-rays, slit-lamp eye exams, and an evaluation of the patient's family history.

Answer: February

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