Elastic Skin Disorder
Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) is also referred to as elastic skin disorder and cutis hyperelastica. It is a collection of hereditary connective tissue disorders caused by defective collagen protein, which provides support for skin and internal organs. There is presently no cure for EDS and depending upon the mutation, the disorder can either be mild or life threatening. Treatments vary based on the severity of the condition and the individual's symptoms.
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Identification
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EDS was identified at the turn of the twentieth century by doctors Edward Ehlers of Denmark and Henri-Alexandre Danlos of France.
Types
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There are six major classifications: hypermobility, classical, vascular, kyphoscoliosis, arthrochalasis and dermatosparaxis, distinguished by hyperelastic skin, loose joints and blood vessels that damage easily.
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General Symptoms
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General symptoms include bruising, stretchy skin, vision problems, early arthritis, flat feet and difficulty healing.
Life Threatening
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In the vascular classification of EDS, premature membrane rupture may occur during pregnancy and is a dangerous and life threatening situation.
Diagnosis
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Diagnosis is performed by a series of tests: collagen typing, collagen gene mutation, echocardiogram, and oxidase or lysyl hydroxylase activity testing.
Outlook
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Most people with EDS have normal life spans but they may face social obstacles and ongoing medical treatment throughout their lives. Vascular types typically feature shorter life spans.
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Resources
- Photo Credit Image: Wikimedia Commons
