What are the ophthalmologic problems caused by the Marfan syndrome?
One or more of the following conditions are common among persons with the Marfan syndrome: high refractive error, flattened corneal curvature, dislocated lenses, early onset cataracts, glaucoma, retinal detachment and strabismus. Most people with the Marfan syndrome are myopic (near-sighted) and have astigmatism (visual distortion). Approximately 65 percent of people with the disorder have dislocated lenses (ectopia lentis). The lens may be markedly off center or so subtly dislocated that an ophthalmologist might miss the dislocation without fully dilating the pupils. Dislocated lenses occur in several other conditions, most commonly after trauma, but their presence is a strong indication of the Marfan syndrome and warrants further evaluation. A slit lamp examination is necessary to identify the lens dislocation. Cataracts often form in middle age of people with the disorder. Retinal detachment is more common in people who have the Marfan syndrome. Glaucoma will also develop in about 3
