How does Marfan syndrome primarily affect the heart?

Marfan syndrome is a connective tissue disorder that can lead to various cardiovascular complications, primarily affecting the heart by causing mitral valve prolapse and aortic dilation. Individuals with Marfan syndrome often exhibit abnormalities in the structure of the heart valves and the aorta, which is the main artery carrying blood from the heart to the rest of the body.

Mitral valve prolapse occurs when the leaflets of the mitral valve are too large or the valve itself is too floppy, allowing it to bulge backward into the left atrium during contraction. This can lead to mitral regurgitation, where blood leaks backward into the atrium.

Aortic dilation refers to the enlargement of the aorta, which can eventually lead to aortic regurgitation or even dissection if the dilation becomes severe. This dilation is due to the weakening of the connective tissues that support the aorta, a common issue seen in Marfan syndrome.

These cardiac manifestations are critical for the management of patients with Marfan syndrome, making it essential for health professionals to be aware of the risks associated with those heart conditions.