Growth in Marfan syndrome

Abstract

Excessive growth and tall stature are common features of Marfan syndrome. Children and parents are often interested in prediction of final adult height. Some may also be interested in growth reductive therapy. Rozendaal et al report on the utility of height prediction methods and the growth reductive effects of sex hormone treatment. They found that standard height prediction methods are of limited value in patients with Marfan syndrome. The growth reductive effects of sex hormone treatment were similar to those found in adolescents with constitutional tall stature. Better methods for prediction of adult height in these patients are needed. Excessive growth and tall stature are common features of Marfan syndrome. Children and parents are often interested in prediction of final adult height. Some may also be interested in growth reductive therapy. Rozendaal et al report on the utility of height prediction methods and the growth reductive effects of sex hormone treatment. They found that standard height prediction methods are of limited value in patients with Marfan syndrome. The growth reductive effects of sex hormone treatment were similar to those found in adolescents with constitutional tall stature. Better methods for prediction of adult height in these patients are needed.