http://www.niams.nih.gov/Health_Info/Marfan_Syndrome/default.asp
National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, National Institutes of Health
Marfan syndrome is a heritable condition that affects the connective tissue. The primary purpose of connective tissue is to hold the body together and provide a framework for growth and development. In Marfan syndrome, the connective tissue is defective and does not act as it should. Because connective tissue is found throughout the body, Marfan syndrome can affect many body systems, including the skeleton, eyes, heart and blood vessels, nervous system, skin, and lungs.