CCI Echocardiography Practice Test

Aortic dilation is a known complication associated with both Marfan's syndrome and Ehlers-Danlos syndrome due to the underlying connective tissue abnormalities that characterize these conditions. In Marfan's syndrome, the mutation in the FBN1 gene leads to the production of abnormal fibrillin, which weakens the structural integrity of the aorta and predisposes patients to aortic dilation and dissection. Similarly, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome affects collagen structure and function, which can also result in vascular manifestations, including aortic dilation.

In both syndromes, the compromised structural strength of the aortic wall can significantly increase the risk of cardiovascular events, making aortic dilation a critical concern for affected individuals. This connection underscores the importance of cardiovascular monitoring and intervention in patients with either condition to prevent life-threatening complications.