Coronary Artery Aneurysms in Patients With Marfan Syndrome: Frequent, Progressive, and Relevant

Can J Cardiol. 2021 Aug;37(8):1225-1231. doi: 10.1016/j.cjca.2021.03.002. Epub 2021 Mar 9.

Abstract

Background: There are few data on the prevalence and clinical consequences of coronary artery aneurysms (CAAs) in adult patients with Marfan syndrome (MFS).

Methods: We performed a retrospective cohort study of 109 patients with pathogenic variants in the FBN1 gene. Diameters of the left main coronary artery (LMCA) and right- coronary artery (RCA) were measured by computed tomography angiography.

Results: The overall prevalence of CAA was 46%. The prevalence rates of CAA were 18% and 68% in patients with a native aortic root (group 1) and patients with previous aortic-root replacement (group 2), respectively. Previous aortic dissection or aortic intervention, longer time from aortic-root replacement, higher systemic score, significant mitral valve involvement, and diffuse aortic disease were correlated with CAA. During a mean follow-up of 8.5 ± 7.6 years, 4 patients developed pseudoaneurysms of the coronary anastomoses, requiring surgery.

Conclusions: CAAs are common in adult patients with MFS and are associated with a more severe aortic phenotype and a longer follow-up after aortic-root replacement. Our study demonstrates that coronary artery size should be regularly followed, mostly after aortic-root replacement and in patients with severe aortic phenotypes. Large multicentre studies are warranted to elucidate the most appropriate surveillance plan.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Anastomosis, Surgical / adverse effects
  • Aneurysm, False / etiology
  • Aorta / surgery
  • Blood Vessel Prosthesis Implantation
  • Cohort Studies
  • Computed Tomography Angiography
  • Coronary Aneurysm / complications*
  • Coronary Aneurysm / diagnostic imaging
  • Coronary Vessels / diagnostic imaging
  • Female
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Marfan Syndrome / complications*
  • Middle Aged
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Severity of Illness Index
  • Young Adult