What type of inheritance pattern is associated with Marfan's syndrome?

Prepare for the NBEO Systemic Disease Exam. Use flashcards and multiple-choice questions to test your knowledge. Each question includes hints and explanations. Enhance your understanding and readiness for the exam.

Marfan's syndrome is associated with an autosomal dominant inheritance pattern. This means that only one copy of the mutated gene, which is located on one of the non-sex chromosomes, is sufficient to express the disorder. Individuals with Marfan's syndrome typically inherit the condition from an affected parent who has the mutation or may have a new mutation emerge in the offspring.

Given this genetic mechanism, there is a 50% chance that an affected parent will pass on the mutated gene to their child, regardless of the child's sex. The autosomal dominant nature of Marfan's syndrome accounts for its varied expressivity; some individuals may exhibit more severe manifestations of the disorder than others. Common features of Marfan's syndrome include tall stature, elongated limbs, aortic dilation, and skeletal abnormalities.

The other inheritance patterns mentioned do not apply to Marfan's syndrome, further solidifying the appropriateness of the autosomal dominant designation.

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