Use of vitreous phenotype as a key clinical marker to identify Ocular-only Stickler syndrome in a family with Marfan syndrome

Abstract

This clinical report describes a family with both Marfan and ocular-only Stickler syndromes. We report 2 cases of ocular-only Stickler syndrome and 2 cases of Marfan syndrome concurrent with ocular-only Stickler syndrome. Type 1 Stickler syndrome and Marfan syndrome share many clinical similarities, and it can be difficult to differentiate them solely based on clinical presentation. Vitreous phenotyping allows for the identification of vitreous anomalies pathognomonic of Stickler syndrome, which can guide future gene sequencing. Having the accurate diagnosis of Marfan or type 1 Stickler syndrome is important, as patients with type 1 Stickler syndrome have higher rates of retinal detachment and will benefit from prophylaxis.