More History's Mysteries: Would Abraham Lincoln Have Died Prematurely Anyway?

I read an interesting article this weekend. A scientist named John G. Sotos has proposed a theory that Abe Lincoln may be the earliest recorded case of a rare genetic disease called MEN 2B (short for "multiple neoplasia type 2B"), which could explain Lincoln's height (6'4"-- very unusual in the 19th century) and overall unique physical appearance. MEN 2B is the result of a mutation of a gene called RET on chromosome 10. Sotos argues that Lincoln's mother, who died at age 34, may have had the disease and that one of Lincoln's four sons-- three of whom died before age 20-- may have inherited it. What's more, Sotos claims that it's highly likely that the 16th president was dying of cancer caused by MEN 2B when he was assassinated and would not have lived more than another year anyway. In addition to cancer, Lincoln is believed to have suffered from Marfan's syndrome, a cardiovascular disorder characterized by extreme height, prominent facial features, and a clumsy gait-- all of which Lincoln possessed. Interestingly, Lincoln had frequent, vivid premonitions of his own death. In one well-documented dream, Lincoln was at a funeral in the White House. Everyone in the room was overcome with grief, and Union soldiers in full dress uniform were guarding a flag-draped casket. Realizing the importance of the deceased, Lincoln approached one soldier and asked,"Excuse me, sir, who has passed away?" The soldier replied, "The president." Lincoln was assassinated shortly thereafter. Perhaps Lincoln was hyper-aware of his mortality due to his health issues. Sotos' theory can be further explored in his Web-based book, The Physical Lincoln.