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Summary
Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS) is a group of inherited disorders that weaken connective tissues. Connective tissues are proteins that support skin, bones, blood vessels, and other organs.
EDS usually affects your skin, joints and blood vessel walls. Symptoms include:
- Loose joints
- Fragile, small blood vessels
- Abnormal scar formation and wound healing
- Soft, velvety, stretchy skin that bruises easily
There are several types of EDS. They can range from mild to life-threatening. About 1 in 5,000 people has EDS. There is no cure. Treatment involves managing symptoms, often with medicines and physical therapy. It also includes learning how to protect your joints and prevent injuries.
Learn More
- Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (Medical Encyclopedia) Also in Spanish
- Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research)
- Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome Hypermobility Type (Marfan Foundation) - PDF
Genetics
-
Ehlers-Danlos syndrome: MedlinePlus Genetics
(National Library of Medicine)
Clinical Trials
-
ClinicalTrials.gov: Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome
(National Institutes of Health)
Journal Articles References and abstracts from MEDLINE/PubMed (National Library of Medicine)
- Article: The prevalence of multisystem diagnoses among young patients with hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos...
- Article: Outcomes of orthopaedic surgery in Ehlers-Danlos syndromes: a scoping review.
- Article: Oral health-related quality of life among women with temporomandibular disorders and...
- Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome -- see more articles
Find an Expert
- Find a Genetic Counselor (National Society of Genetic Counselors)
The information on this site should not be used as a substitute for professional medical care or advice. Contact a health care provider if you have questions about your health.