Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome
Ehlers-Danlos syndrome is a rare disorder of connective tissue that results in unusually flexible joints, very elastic skin, and fragile tissues.
Ehlers-Danlos syndrome is caused by an abnormality in one of the genes that controls the production of connective tissue. There are several variations (with widely varying severity), each affecting a different gene and producing slightly different changes. The result is abnormally fragile connective tissue, which causes problems in joints and bones and may weaken internal organs.
Children with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome usually have very flexible joints. Some develop small, hard, round lumps under the skin; a humpback with an abnormal curve of the spine (kyphoscoliosis); or flat feet. The skin can be stretched several inches but returns to its normal position when released.
Ehlers-Danlos syndrome may alter the body's response to injuries. Minor injuries may result in wide gaping wounds. Although these wounds usually do not bleed excessively, they leave wide scars. Sprains and dislocations develop easily.
In a small number of children with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, the blood clots poorly. Bleeding from minor wounds may be difficult to stop.
The intestines can bulge through the abdominal wall (hernias), and abnormal outpouchings (diverticula) can develop in the intestine. Rarely, a fragile intestine bleeds or ruptures (perforates).
If a pregnant woman has Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, delivery may be premature. If the fetus has Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, its surrounding membranes may rupture early (premature rupture of membranes). A mother or baby who has Ehlers-Danlos syndrome can bleed excessively around the time of delivery.
A doctor makes the diagnosis based on the symptoms and results of a physical examination. The doctor can confirm the diagnosis of some types of Ehlers-Danlos syndrome by taking a sample of skin to examine under a microscope.
Treatment and Prognosis
There is no way to cure Ehlers-Danlos syndrome or correct the abnormalities in the connective tissue. Injuries can be treated, but it may be difficult for a doctor to stitch cuts because stitches tend to tear out of the fragile tissue. Usually, using an adhesive tape or medical skin glue closes cuts more easily and leaves less scarring.
Special precautions should be taken to prevent injuries. For example, protective clothing and padding may be worn in children with severe forms; surgery requires special techniques that minimize injury and ensure that a large supply of blood is available for transfusion.
Despite the many and varied complications people with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome may have, their life span is usually normal. However, in a few people with one specific type of Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, complications (usually bleeding) are fatal.
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