Collagen Disorders

Collagen disorders are a group of connective tissue diseases characterized by the weakness or inflammation of collagen, according to MedicineNet. Collagen disorders usually involve the immune system, according to the website.

Collagen

Collagen is an insoluble, fibrous protein in connective tissues, according to Molecular Cell Biology.

Types

The most common collagen disorder is benign joint hypermobility syndrome (BJHS), according to Arthritis Research UK (ARUK). Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, Marfan's syndrome and osteogenesis imperfecta are less common collagen disorders.

Signs

Collagen disorders usually involve joint hypermobility, or the ability of a joint (or joints) to extend further than normal. In some cases, hypermobility causes pain or leads to ligament injury or strain, according to Mayo Clinic.

Genetic Component

The four major collagen disorders each involve a genetic component which is usually inherited, according to ARUK. In some cases collagen disorders are caused by spontaneous genetic mutations.

Treatment

Treatment depends on the specific collagen disorder and complications associated with that disorder. Pain management techniques and physical therapy are often used in treatment of hypermobility, the most common symptom of collagen disorders.

References

• MedicineNet: Connective Tissue Disease
• Molecular Cell Biology: Collagen: The Fibrous Proteins of the Matrix
• ARUK: Heritable Collagen Disorders
• Mayo Clinic: Joint Hypermobility

Resources

• Wheeless' Textbook of Orthopaedics: Collagen Disorders
• JAOA: Benign Joint Hypermobility Syndrome
• Medicine Net: Marfan Syndrome
• Mayo Clinic: Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome
• WebMD: Osteogenesis Imperfecta