Ehlers-Danlos syndrome: a review

Abstract

Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) affects the metabolism of collagen which can have implications throughout the body, impacting on not only the skin, but also the joints, muscles, cardiovascular and gastrointestinal systems. The condition can have dental implications such as poor wound healing, mucosal fragility, prolonged bleeding, temporomandibular joint dislocation and, in some forms, periodontal disease. Three clinical cases of patients with EDS will be discussed and their dental management described. The patient with EDS may be seen in primary care and, if input from secondary care is required, a multidisciplinary, shared care approach will ideally be utilized. CPD/Clinical Relevance: Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome is a condition that can be multifactorial, with medical implications as well as dental; depending on the manifestations of the condition, the patient may be seen in primary and/or secondary care with or without a shared care approach.