Marfan Syndrome and Asthma: A Review

Abstract

Marfan syndrome is a disorder involving multiple organ systems, including the skeletal, ocular, and cardiovascular systems. Progressive dilatation of the ascending aorta and aortic dissection are well-recognized complications of Marfan syndrome. The use of beta blockers has been shown to slow the rate of growth of the ascending aorta and to lessen cardiovascular complications. Asthma is likely to be encountered in some patients with Marfan syndrome, and there appears to be no contraindication to current therapeutic options for asthma with coexisting Marfan syndrome. By contrast, however, the use of beta blockers may complicate or exacerbate asthma. Cardioselective beta blockers may be better tolerated but still have the potential to cause bronchoconstriction. Calcium channel blockers possess some of the same physiologic effects of beta blockers without associated bronchoconstriction and may be an effective alternative therapy to beta blockers. Further research is needed to develop more selective beta blockers and to establish the efficacy of calcium channel blockers and other alternative agents to lessen aortic complications in Marfan syndrome.