Marfan syndrome 1) 2)”Marfan syndrome is caused by a defect (mutation) in the gene that tells the body how to make fibrillin-1 -- a protein that is an important part of connective tissue.” 3)” Marfan syndrome features may include: Tall and slender build, Disproportionately long arms, legs, fingers and toes, A breastbone that protrudes outward or dips inward, A high, arched palate and crowded teeth, Heart murmurs, Extreme nearsightedness, An abnormally curved spine, and Flat feet.” 4) “Early diagnosis and advances in medical technology have improved the quality of life for people with Marfan syndrome and lengthened their lifespan. In addition, early identification of risk factors (such as aortic dilation) allows doctors to intervene and prevent or delay complications.” 5) “Treatment options can minimize and sometimes prevent complications. The appropriate specialists will develop an individualized treatment program; the approach the doctor uses depends on which systems are affected.” structures. 1) http://www.nasagap.com/marfan-syndrome-symptoms-cause-effectstreatment-and-cure/ 2) http://www.marfan.org/marfan/2416/Cause 3) http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/marfansyndrome/DS00540/DSECTION=symptoms 4) http://genetics.emedtv.com/marfan-syndrome/marfan-syndromeprognosis.html 5) http://www.marfan.org/marfan/2415/Treatment/ 6) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0001455/