BACKGROUND: Marfan syndrome (MS) is an autosomic dominant condition of the 
connective tissue that involves the ocular, cardiovascular and musculoskeletal 
systems. MS is caused by mutations in the fibrillin-1 gene, leading to joint 
ligaments flaccidity, joint hypermobility and an overgrowth of the long bones.
OBJECTIVES: The aim of the present study was to assess anthropometry, 
musculoskeletal alterations and the prevalence of physical therapy treatments 
among patients with MS.
METHODS: Twenty-six patients were included in this study [17 females (age: 
13.23±2.77 years; body mass 51.5±24-68 Kg; height 1.70±1.40-1.81 m; arm span: 
1.73±0.12 m) and 9 males (age: 14.44±2.18; body mass: 61.0±42-72 Kg; height: 
1.83±1.66-1.97 m; arm span: 1.93±0.13 m)]. Anthropometric measurements and 
musculoskeletal abnormalities were determined in a standardized fashion: pectus 
and scoliosis were assessed through radiography and angulation (â) of the 
scoliosis curve using the Cobb method; arachnodactyly was assessed through the 
thumb sign and Walker-Murdoch test and dolichostenomelia was assessed by arm 
span in relation to height. Patients also responded to a questionnaire 
addressing participation in physical therapy.
RESULTS: In comparison to values estimated for the Brazilian population, mass 
and height were greater among the patients with MS (females: p=0.001 e p<0.0005 
e males p=0.019 e p=0.0001, respectively). The following musculoskeletal 
abnormalities were found: pectus in 3 patients (11%), pectus and scoliosis in 19 
(73%), dolichostenomelia in 11 (42%) and arachnodactyly in 21 (80%). Eleven 
patients (42%) with MS had previously undergone physical therapy.
CONCLUSIONS: Patients with MS exhibit altered musculoskeleto and anthropometry 
and have infrequent physical therapy treatment.