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If you have a known family history of Marfan syndrome or physical features of the condition, your doctor may recommend screening to find the condition early. Relatives of people who have Marfan syndrome may also want to have genetic screening. There is no way to prevent Marfan syndrome.
To screen for Marfan syndrome, your doctor may do a physical exam, including a check for certain body features common to the condition, and may ask about your symptoms. Depending on your age, your doctor may suggest a genetic test.
Siblings, parents, or children of a person who has Marfan syndrome—also known as first-degree relatives—may want to have genetic testing for the condition even if they do not have symptoms . Other relatives, such as first cousins and half-siblings, may be tested if they have symptoms or if the family is concerned that the person may have Marfan syndrome. Learn more in Diagnosis.
There is no way to prevent Marfan syndrome. Couples who are planning to have children and know that they are at risk of having a child with Marfan syndrome may want to meet with a genetic counselor. A genetic counselor can answer questions about the risk and explain the choices that are available.