Connective Tissue Disorders

If you live in Southern California or nearby states such as Nevada and Arizona and need experienced care for rare connective tissue disorders — including Loeys-Dietz (LDS), vascular Ehlers-Danlos (vEDS), and other genetic aortopathies — Hoag offers a nationally recognized destination for diagnosis, treatment, and long-term surveillance.

Hoag’s specialized program brings together experts in cardiovascular medicine, genetics, and advanced imaging to deliver comprehensive care for inherited conditions that can affect the aorta and other organs. With decades of institutional experience in managing complex genetic aortic conditions, the team provides coordinated evaluation, education, and follow-up tailored to each patient.

For those facing these rare conditions, there’s simply no place like Hoag. Keep reading for more information about connective tissue disorders — including common types, associated complications, and steps to protect long-term health. You can also explore Hoag’s advanced aortic and genetic services, including the Elaine & Robert Matranga Aortic Center.

What Are the Risks Associated with Connective Tissue Diseases, Including Aortic Issues?

Connective tissue disorders can affect multiple organs and systems. Individuals may experience skeletal differences, facial or structural features, joint or connective-tissue weakness, cardiovascular issues, or vision concerns.

From a cardiovascular standpoint, many of these conditions impact the body’s ability to create the proteins that form strong, flexible connective tissues. This can weaken the aorta and other blood vessels, increasing the risk of:

• Aortic enlargement (dilation) — stretching or widening of the aorta.

• Aortic aneurysm — a bulge in the aorta that can grow over time.

• Aortic rupture — a life-threatening emergency in which the aorta tears open.

• Aortic dissection — a tear in the inner lining of the aortic wall that allows blood to separate the layers.

Common Types of Connective Tissue Disorders and Related Aortic Conditions

Loeys–Dietz Syndrome (LDS)

A genetic condition that affects connective tissue strength, bone structure, and blood vessels. Individuals may have distinct facial features and are at increased risk for aortic complications.

Vascular Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (vEDS)

A rare genetic disorder caused by changes in collagen production. It can affect skin, joints, organs, and blood vessels, increasing the risk of arterial rupture or dissection.

Turner Syndrome

A chromosomal condition occurring in females at birth. It often includes cardiovascular differences, including issues with the aorta or aortic valve.

Familial Thoracic Aortic Aneurysm and Dissection (Familial TAAD)

An inherited condition that increases the risk of thoracic aortic aneurysm and dissection. Some individuals develop the condition without a clear family history.

Bicuspid Aortic Valve (BAV)

A congenital condition in which the aortic valve has two leaflets instead of three. BAV can weaken the aorta over time, increasing the risk of enlargement or dissection.

What Causes Connective Tissue Disorders?

These disorders result from genetic mutations that affect how the body forms connective tissue. They can be inherited or occur spontaneously. Approximately 20% of thoracic aortic aneurysms are linked to a family history.

Risk Factors

The primary known risk factor is having a family history of a genetic condition that impacts connective tissue or the aorta.

How Can I Reduce My Risk of Serious Aortic Conditions?

1. Work Closely With Your Specialists

Routine care with cardiovascular and genetic experts helps monitor changes and detect complications early. Surveillance imaging and specialty follow-up are essential.

2. Genetic Counseling

Understanding your risk — or the risk to future children — can help guide early detection and management. Hoag offers advanced genetic counseling and testing services.

3. Maintain Heart-Healthy Habits

A weakened aorta can stretch more easily under high blood pressure. Lifestyle and medication strategies to control blood pressure significantly reduce risk.

Comprehensive Care for Connective Tissue Disorders Across the West Coast

For patients throughout Southern California and beyond, Hoag offers a coordinated, multidisciplinary program dedicated to diagnosing, monitoring, and managing hereditary connective tissue disorders and aortic conditions.

With advanced cardiovascular expertise, genetic counseling, state-of-the-art imaging, and long-term surveillance, Hoag delivers the high-quality, personalized care patients need to stay safe and well-supported throughout their journey.

To learn more or request an appointment, call 949-764-8468 or contact us online.