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Ehlers Danlos Syndrome

Abstract

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Synonyms of Ehlers Danlos Syndrome

  • EDS
  • E-D Syndrome

Disorder Subdivisions

  • Ehlers Danlos syndrome, arthrochalasia type
  • Ehlers Danlos syndrome, cardiac valvular form
  • Ehlers Danlos syndrome, classic type
  • Ehlers Danlos syndrome, dermatosparaxis type
  • Ehlers Danlos syndrome, hypermobility type
  • Ehlers Danlos syndrome, kyphoscoliotic type
  • Ehlers Danlos syndrome, progeroid form
  • Ehlers Danlos syndrome, vascular type

General Discussion

Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS) is a group of hereditary connective tissue disorders characterized by defects of the major structural protein in the body (collagen). Collagen, a tough, fibrous protein, plays an essential role in holding together, strengthening, and providing elasticity to bodily cells and tissues. Due to defects of collagen, primary EDS symptoms and findings include abnormally flexible, loose joints (articular hypermobility) that may easily become dislocated; unusually loose, thin, stretchy (elastic) skin; and excessive fragility of the skin, blood vessels, and other bodily tissues and membranes.

The different types of EDS were originally categorized in a classification system that used Roman numerals (e.g., EDS I to EDS XI), based upon each form's associated symptoms and findings (clinical evidence) and underlying cause. A revised, simplified classification system (revised nosology) has since been described in the medical literature that categorizes EDS into six major subtypes, based upon clinical evidence, underlying biochemical defects, and mode of inheritance.

Each subtype of EDS is a distinct hereditary disorder that may affect individuals within certain families (kindreds). In other words, parents with one subtype of EDS will not have children with another EDS subtype. Depending upon the specific subtype present, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome is usually transmitted as an autosomal dominant or autosomal recessive trait.

Organizations related to Ehlers Danlos Syndrome

NORD offers an online community for this rare disease. RareConnect was created by EURORDIS (European Rare Disease Organisation) and NORD (National Organization for Rare Disorders) to provide a safe space where individuals and families affected by rare diseases can connect with each other, share vital experiences, and find helpful information and resources. You can view these international, rare disease communities at www.rareconnect.org.

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