ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Marfan syndrome

Ok kiddo, have you ever seen someone who is REALLY tall and has really long arms and legs? Well, sometimes that can be because they have something called Marfan Syndrome.

Marfan Syndrome is a problem with the body's connective tissues, which are kind of like the glue that holds our bodies together. People with Marfan Syndrome don't have enough of a protein called fibrillin, which helps make the connective tissues strong and flexible.

Because of this, they can have really long fingers and toes, a curved spine, and stretch marks on their skin. They may also have problems with their eyes, like being nearsighted or having a lens in their eye that isn't in the right place.

Sometimes, people with Marfan Syndrome can have problems with their heart too, like having a valve that doesn't work right or having an artery that is too weak and could even burst. That’s why it’s important for people with Marfan Syndrome to get regular checkups with their doctors to make sure everything is okay.

But with the help of doctors and treatment, people with Marfan Syndrome can still live happy and healthy lives.