Fatigue, frequent joint dislocations, or easy bruisability characterizes Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS). EDS is an uncommon but serious condition that affects the connective tissues in the body that provide structure and function to cells, organs, and tissues. EDS is characterized by excessive joint mobility and abnormal tissue fragility due to weak collagen proteins found throughout the body. This article will provide additional info on the various types of EDS disorders and the treatments available to help manage their symptoms.
EDS has 13 subtypes inherited in an autosomal dominant or recessive pattern. The following is Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS): 13 Different Types Explained, their symptoms and presentations.
Hypermobile EDS (hEDS)
Hypermobile EDS (hEDS) has elusive diagnostic criteria and undeniably impacts patients’ quality of life. Hypermobile EDS is the most common systemic inherited connective tissue disorder. Living with hEDS means experiencing joint hypermobility, chronic pain, and many other symptoms that pose significant daily challenges. Yet, it also encourages resilience, advocacy, and a deepened understanding of the human body’s exceptional capabilities and vulnerabilities.
Classical EDS (cEDS)
Classical EDS is characterized by hypermobile joints, highly elastic skin prone to bruising, and a propensity for scarring. Individuals affected by cEDS often face an uphill battle daily as they navigate chronic pain and frequent injury. Additional research into this subtype is essential to help medical professionals identify and provide the most effective treatment options for those grappling with cEDS.
Vascular Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (vEDS)
Vascular Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (vEDS), according to realtimecampaign.com, is the most severe form characterized by life-threatening complications due to excessive fragility of blood vessels and organs. Individuals with vEDS may experience dissections, aneurysms, and vessel rupture, leading to serious health risks and a shortened life expectancy. However, early diagnosis and comprehensive medical care can make a crucial difference in managing these complications.
Kyphoscoliotic EDS (kEDS)
This is a type of EDS characterized by severe curvature of the spine that worsens over time and can compromise an individual’s breathing.
Brittle Cornea Syndrome (BCS)
BCS results in the cornea (the clear covering of the eye) thinning, becoming extremely fragile, and can spontaneously rupture without exposure to extreme trauma. This can result in blindness.
Spondylodysplastic EDS (spEDS)
Individuals with this form of EDS have short stature with other skeletal abnormalities like bowed legs. Other symptoms include mild cognitive/learning disability, flat feet, and hypotonia.
Musculocontractural EDS (mcEDS)
Musculocontractural EDS is characterized by muscle hypotonia, joint contractures like severely bent thumbs and fingers, club feet, and a distinctive craniofacial disfigurement. Myopathic EDS (mEDS) is similar to mcEDS and causes muscle atrophy or weakness.
Classical-Like EDS (clEDS)
This is a rare form of EDS without the classical scarring features. Classical-like EDS is characterized by vaginal, uterus, or rectum prolapse and foot deformities.
Cardiac-Valvular EDS (cvEDS)
This is a severe form of EDS that presents with heart valve problems, a deformed chest, and an inguinal hernia which causes abdominal contents to protrude.
Arthrochalasia EDS (aEDS)
An extremely rare form of EDS is characterized by bilateral hip dislocations, low muscle tone, and spinal curvature.
Dermatosparaxis EDS (dEDS)
Dermatosparaxis EDS is characterized by severe bruising, fragility, and skin sagging. Other symptoms include umbilical hernia, extremely wrinkled palms, and postnatal growth restriction.
Periodontal EDS (pEDS)
Periodontal EDS causes dental issues like periodontitis, and it often starts during childhood or adolescence. It presents with detached gingiva and pretibial plaques.
Being diagnosed with a rare disorder that has no cure, only symptoms manageable, can be emotionally and mentally draining. Patients often feel isolated and not understood by their communities. Support groups like The Mighty offer patients and their families a judgment and criticism-free environment. In this way, raising awareness about the various manifestations of Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome can contribute to a better understanding of the condition and provide a more empathetic environment for those affected.
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