Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome
The problems present in Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS), a group of approximately 10 disorders, include changes in the physical properties of skin, joints, blood vessels, and other tissues such as ligaments and tendons. People with EDS have some degree of joint looseness, fragile small blood vessels, and abnormal scar formation and wound healing. Soft, velvety skin stretches excessively but returns to normal after being pulled. Some forms of EDS can present problems with the spine, including curved spine; the eyes; and weak internal organs, including the uterus, intestines, and large blood vessels. Mutations in several different genes are responsible for different symptoms in the several types of EDS. In most cases, the genetic defect involves collagen, the major protein-building material of bone.
- Ehlers-Danlos Society
- Ehlers-Danlos Support Group: This website has many purposes; to share medical information about EDS, to make you aware of various support groups and events available, to give you the latest research on EDS, some advice on how to cope with living with EDS, show available publications, and to allow you to discuss your personal issues on EDS with other people in our interactive Message Board.
- Overview of Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome: Includes definition, symptoms, characteristics, treatment and much more.