Marfan's syndrome

Three cases of arachnodactyly complicated by aneurysm of the aorta are presented. In two of these cases the autopsy findings are described. Autopsy showed a tear in the wall of the aorta, without dissection in one of our patients. Generalized aneurysmal dilatation of the aorta was present in all three cases, with aortic insufficiency. Aneurysm of the aorta is a frequent occurrence in patients with arachnodactyly who reach adulthood. Dissection of the aorta may be responsible for early death in these patients. Generalized dilatation of the aorta may lead to aortic insufficiency and death.