What is Ehlers-Danlos syndrome?

Ehlers-Danlos syndrome is a group of rare, inherited diseases that affect the structures responsible for supporting and filling the space between parts of the body. It is caused by genetic mutations.

Symptoms

The main symptoms of Ehlers-Danlos syndrome include very flexible joints and joint dislocation. Elastic, translucent, and fragile skin, along with difficulty healing wounds. Excessive fatigue and bruising may also occur.

Causes

Ehlers-Danlos syndrome is caused by genetic mutations, which vary depending on the type of the disease.

Diagnosis

Each type of Ehlers-Danlos syndrome has specific criteria. A specialist doctor, such as a rheumatologist or geneticist, can evaluate the symptoms and recommend genetic testing.

Prevention

People with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome who wish to become parents may seek counseling to discuss options for not passing the mutated gene on to their child. Once the mutation is present, there is no way to prevent it.

Treatment

Ehlers-Danlos syndrome has no cure. Treatment helps manage symptoms and monitor the development of complications. Patient education, medications, physical therapy, and psychotherapy may be used.

Duration

Ehlers-Danlos syndrome has no cure. Once diagnosed, the person lives with the condition for life.

Contagious?

Ehlers-Danlos syndrome is not contagious.

Can it occur more than once?

People are born with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome. Those with the condition live with it throughout their lives.

By Einstein Editorial Board