All articles tagged with #marfan syndrome
Researchers at Cornell University have confirmed the first documented cases of Marfan syndrome in domestic cats. The condition was identified in two sibling cats, Gary and Shaggy, who exhibited severe connective tissue abnormalities. The study, published in Scientific Reports, marks a significant milestone in veterinary genetics and provides a foundation for future diagnostic testing.
Cornell University researchers have documented the first molecular characterization of Marfan syndrome in domestic cats. The study, published in Scientific Reports on September 19, 2026, details the condition in two sibling cats, Gary and Shaggy, who exhibited connective tissue abnormalities. The team identified a specific variant in the FBN1 gene, which codes for fibrillin-1, a key component of connective tissues. This discovery provides a foundation for improved veterinary diagnostics and potential genetic testing for the rare disorder in felines.
Researchers at Cornell University have documented the first molecular characterization of Marfan syndrome in domestic cats, identifying a specific genetic variant in two siblings that explains their connective tissue abnormalities.
The thumb-palm test, where the thumb crosses beyond the edge of the palm, may reflect joint laxity linked to connective-tissue disorders such as Marfan or Ehlers-Danlos and could hint at higher aortic aneurysm risk, but it is not a reliable screening tool and should not replace medical imaging. If you have a positive result or risk factors, discuss with a doctor about appropriate testing (echocardiography, CT or ultrasound) and guideline-based surveillance.
Identical twins with Marfan syndrome, a genetic condition affecting connective tissues, both needed open heart surgery to repair aortic aneurysms after their mother experienced a life-threatening aortic dissection. Following their decision to undergo surgery on the same day, the procedures were successful, and they are now focused on recovery and regaining their strength, grateful for the opportunity to live normal, active lives without the looming threat of a medical emergency.