Ehlers-Danlos syndrome

Google Ehlers-Danlos syndrome is the name given to a group of conditions that are inherited through the genes. A faulty inherited gene means that there is a problem with the formation and structure of collagen and connective tissue in the body. This leads to stretchy skin, loose joints and fragile blood vessels and body tissues. Treatment is aimed at trying to protect the skin and joints from further damage.

What is Ehlers-Danlos syndrome and what causes it?

Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS) is the name given to a group of conditions that are inherited through the genes. There is a problem with the formation and structure of collagen and connective tissue in the body.
Connective tissue is a fibrous tissue that gives support and structure and binds, or connects, parts of the body together. Collagen is a type of protein and is one of the main components of connective tissue. There are over thirty different types of collagen, found in different parts of the body. More than 80% of the skin is made up from collagen. Collagen is also found in the tendons, ligaments and cartilage around joints, as well as the blood vessels.
In someone with EDS, faulty genes mean that the amount of collagen in their body can be reduced and/or the collagen and connective tissue can be weaker. It can affect the skin, joints and blood vessels throughout the body leading to:

• Fragile and hyperelastic (stretchy) skin.
• Unstable and hypermobile (loose) joints.
• Fragile blood vessels and body tissues.

There are six main types of EDS that cause different problems and affect the body in different ways. The different types of EDS depend on which of the different types of collagen are affected and in what part of the body.
It is called Ehlers-Danlos syndrome after Edvard Ehlers and Henri-Alexandre Danlos who recognised and described the features of the group of conditions in the early 1900s.