The prognosis for maternal outcomes in pregnancies of women with Marfan syndrome is most related to what factor?

The prognosis for maternal outcomes in pregnancies of women with Marfan syndrome is primarily related to the degree of aortic root dilation. In individuals with Marfan syndrome, a connective tissue disorder, the aorta can be structurally compromised, which potentially leads to complications during pregnancies due to the increased hemodynamic stress. As pregnancy progresses, the blood volume expands, and the heart works harder, which can exacerbate any pre-existing dilation of the aortic root.

Aortopathy can lead to serious conditions, such as aortic dissection or rupture, especially if significant dilation is present. Therefore, the degree of aortic root dilation is a critical factor influencing maternal outcomes because more severe dilation poses a higher risk for these life-threatening complications. Regular monitoring and assessments are essential for managing the risks associated with pregnancy in women who have Marfan syndrome, focusing particularly on the status of the aortic root.

While the other options relate to potential complications that could arise during pregnancy—like pulmonary hypertension, cardiac dysrhythmias, and hypervolemia—they are not as directly tied to the overall prognosis for maternal outcomes as the aortic root dilation. In cases of Marfan syndrome, the heart's anatomy and blood vessel integrity remain paramount considerations for maternal health during pregnancy