Ehlers-Danlos syndrome is a rare disorder of connective tissue that results in unusually flexible joints, very elastic skin, and fragile tissues.

• This syndrome is caused by a defect in one of the genes that controls the production of connective tissue.
• Typical symptoms include flexible joints, a humpback, flat feet, and elastic skin.
• The diagnosis is based on symptoms and results of a physical examination.
• Most people with this syndrome have a normal life span.
• There is no cure for Ehlers-Danlos syndrome.

Ehlers-Danlos syndrome is caused by an abnormality in one of the genes that controls the production of connective tissue. There are several variants (with widely varying severity) involving different genes and causing slightly different changes. The result is abnormally fragile connective tissue, which causes problems in joints and bones and may weaken internal organs.

Children with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome usually have very flexible joints. Some develop small, hard, round lumps under the skin, a humpback with an abnormal curve of the spine (kyphoscoliosis), or flat feet. The skin can be stretched up to several inches but returns to its normal position when released.

Ehlers-Danlos syndrome may alter the body's response to injuries. Minor injuries may result in wide gaping wounds. Although these wounds usually do not bleed excessively, they leave wide scars. Sprains and dislocations develop easily.

In a small number of children with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, the blood clots poorly. Bleeding from minor wounds may be difficult to stop.

The intestines can bulge through the abdominal wall (calledf a hernia), and abnormal outpouchings (diverticula) can develop in the intestine. Rarely, a fragile intestine bleeds or ruptures (perforates).

If a pregnant woman has Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, delivery may be premature. If the fetus has Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, the amniotic sac may rupture early (premature rupture of membranes). A mother or baby who has Ehlers-Danlos syndrome can bleed excessively before, during, and after delivery.

A doctor bases the diagnosis on the symptoms and results of a physical examination. The doctor can try to confirm the diagnosis of some types of Ehlers-Danlos syndrome by taking a sample of skin to examine under a microscope (biopsy). Genetic and biochemical tests for some types are available at some research centers. Other tests are done to check for conditions that are associated with complications, such as problems with the heart or blood vessels.

Prognosis and Treatment

Despite the many and varied complications people with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome may have, their life span is usually normal. However, in a few people with one type of Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, complications (usually bleeding) are fatal. Genetic counseling for family members is suggested.

Special precautions should be taken to prevent injuries. For example, children with severe forms of Ehlers-Danlos syndrome can wear protective clothing and padding.

There is no way to cure Ehlers-Danlos syndrome or correct the abnormalities in the connective tissue. Injuries can be treated, but it may be difficult for a doctor to stitch cuts because stitches tend to tear out of the fragile tissue. Usually, using an adhesive tape or medical skin glue closes cuts more easily and leaves less scarring.

Surgery requires special techniques that minimize injury and ensure that a large supply of blood is available for transfusion. An obstetrician must supervise pregnancy and delivery.

Last full review/revision February 2008 by Frank Pessler, MD, PhD; David D. Sherry, MD