10 Symptoms of Marfan Syndrome
Reviewed: Dr. Gromatzky
Symptom #7: Heart Murmur and Cardiovascular Issues
A heart murmur is a sound that is produced when there is abnormal blood flow through the heart valves. In Marfan syndrome, the heart valves (especially the mitral valve) are affected. The most common valve issue in Marfan syndrome is mitral valve prolapse. This is where the leaflets of the valve become floppy and unable to close tightly, leading to backflow through the valve. This causes the heart to work harder which causes fatigue, breathlessness, and palpitations.
Eventually, the heart may enlarge leading to heart failure. Another potential issue is the dilation of the aortic root causing the aortic valve to stretch and leak. Arrhythmia can also occur in some patients.
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