View source for Ehlers-danlos syndrome

'''Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome''' (''pronunciation: AY-lurz-DAN-lowz'') is a group of inherited disorders that primarily affect the [[skin]], [[joints]], and [[blood vessels]]. 

==Etymology==
The syndrome is named after two doctors, [[Edvard Ehlers]] and [[Henri-Alexandre Danlos]], who first described it in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

==Description==
Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome is characterized by overly flexible [[joints]] due to weak [[connective tissue]], skin that stretches easily and doesn't return to its original state quickly, and fragile [[blood vessels]]. There are several types of Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, each with its own set of symptoms and complications. 

==Types==
The major types of Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome include:

* '''[[Classical EDS]]''' (''cEDS''): Characterized by highly elastic skin and overly flexible joints.
* '''[[Vascular EDS]]''' (''vEDS''): This is the most serious form of EDS, as it can cause the walls of the blood vessels, intestines, or uterus to rupture.
* '''[[Hypermobile EDS]]''' (''hEDS''): This type primarily affects the joints, which can be overly flexible and prone to dislocation.

==Symptoms==
Common symptoms of Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome include:

* Overly flexible joints
* Stretchy skin
* Fragile skin that bruises or tears easily
* Slow and poor wound healing
* Chronic pain

==Diagnosis==
Diagnosis of Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome typically involves a physical examination, review of medical and family history, and may include genetic testing.

==Treatment==
There is currently no cure for Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and preventing complications. This may include physical therapy, pain management, and in some cases, surgery.

==See Also==
* [[Connective tissue]]
* [[Genetic disorder]]
* [[Joint hypermobility]]
* [[Marfan syndrome]]

[[Category:Medical Dictionary]]
[[Category:Genetic disorders]]
[[Category:Connective tissue diseases]]

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