In Marfan syndrome, which valvular abnormality is most characteristic?

In Marfan syndrome, which valvular abnormality is most characteristic?

• A. Aortic insufficiency/regurgitation
• B. Aortic stenosis
• C. Pulmonary valve stenosis
• D. Tricuspid regurgitation

Answer: (A)

In Marfan syndrome, weakness in the connective tissue leads to dilation of the aortic root and annulus. This dilation prevents the aortic valve cusps from meeting tightly during diastole, so blood leaks back into the left ventricle—producing aortic insufficiency (aortic regurgitation). This valve abnormality is the most characteristic because the aortic root dilation is a hallmark of the disease and directly causes regurgitation. Aortic stenosis is less typical in Marfan, since it usually results from calcific or congenital valve narrowing rather than root dilation. Pulmonary valve stenosis and tricuspid regurgitation are not the hallmark valvular problems in this condition.

In Marfan syndrome, weakness in the connective tissue leads to dilation of the aortic root and annulus. This dilation prevents the aortic valve cusps from meeting tightly during diastole, so blood leaks back into the left ventricle—producing aortic insufficiency (aortic regurgitation). This valve abnormality is the most characteristic because the aortic root dilation is a hallmark of the disease and directly causes regurgitation.

Aortic stenosis is less typical in Marfan, since it usually results from calcific or congenital valve narrowing rather than root dilation. Pulmonary valve stenosis and tricuspid regurgitation are not the hallmark valvular problems in this condition.