What's Marfan syndrome?
The Marfan syndrome is a heritable condition that affects the connective tissue. The primary purpose of connective tissue is to hold the body together and provide a framework for growth and development. In the Marfan syndrome, the connective tissue is defective and does not act as it should. Because connective tissue is found throughout the body, the Marfan syndrome can affect many body systems, including the skeleton, eyes, heart and blood vessels, nervous system, skin and lungs.The Marfan syndrome affects men, women and children, and has been found among people of all races and ethnic backgrounds. It is estimated that at least 1 in 5,000 people in the United States have the disorder.
What are related disorders?
aneurysms and dissections
Mitral Valve Prolapse
Tall stature with long, slim arms and legs with long, spider-like fingers and toes
Who do I know that had/have Marfan's?
Abraham Lincoln
Vincent Schiavelli, actor (Ghost, Man on the Moon, People vs Larry Flynt and many, many more), honorary co-chair of the National Marfan Foundation
Jonathan Larson, Tony Award-winning playwright (Rent)
Flo Hyman, captain, U.S. Olympic Volleyball team, 1984 (won gold medal)
Chris Patton, college basketball player (University of Maryland)
Akhanatan, father of King Tut
Charles de Gaulle, Rachmaninoff, Paganini, Mary Queen of Scots
all information came from the National Marfan Foundation website
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no wonder Ab Lincoln was soo tall!
ReplyDeletehaha you put the rent up for me huh? :]