A thoracic aortic aneurysm is an enlargement of the aorta in the thoracic cavity (chest area), which is the first part of the artery that takes blood away from the heart. A thoracic aortic aneurysm can progressively enlarge over time and doesn’t usually have symptoms. However, if an enlarged aneurysm is not surgically repaired, it […]
Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome hypermobility type is one of six different types of Ehlers-Danlos syndromes, and it is the most common. Ehlers-Danlos syndrome hypermobility type is a connective tissue disorder that predominantly affects the skeletal system. It is characterized by loose joints, often associated with chronic (long-term) joint pain. What other names do people use for Ehlers-Danlos […]
In some families, dislocation of the lens of the eye (ectopia lentis) is the predominant feature that passes from generation to generation. Sometimes, this occurs along with some of the skeletal (bone and joint) features of Marfan syndrome. This combination of features is called ectopia lentis syndrome. What are the characteristics of ectopia lentis syndrome? […]
Shprintzen-Goldberg Syndrome is a condition that affects many parts of the body. People who have this syndrome have a combination of unique facial features and skeletal and neurological abnormalities. Shprintzen-Goldberg syndrome is caused by genetic changes (mutations) in a gene that contributes to the formation of connective tissue. How prevalent is Shprintzen-Goldberg syndrome? What are […]
Bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) is a defect of the aortic valve that is present at birth. The aortic valve allows oxygen-rich blood to flow from the heart to the aorta. The aorta is the major blood vessel that brings blood to the body. Normally, there are three valve flaps (leaflets) in the aortic valve. In a person who […]
Beals syndrome is a disorder of connective tissue. The syndrome was first explained by Beals and Hecht in 1971. Features of Beals syndrome are found throughout the body, especially in large joints. While there is no information on the exact prevalence of Beals syndrome, it is estimated that the incidence (number of new cases within […]
Ehlers-Danlos syndrome is a group of connective tissue disorders that are characterized by unstable, hypermobile joints, loose, “stretchy” skin, and tissue fragility. It is caused by a defect in the connective tissue. The fragile tissues and skin and unstable joints found in Ehlers-Danlos syndrome are due to a gene mutation in collagen. What other names […]
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