Danlos Syndrome Research Articles

Prospective clinical investigations of children with periodontal Ehlers–Danlos syndrome identify generalized lack of attached gingiva as a pathognomonic feature

PurposeWe report prospective clinical investigations of children affected with periodontal Ehlers–Danlos syndrome (pEDS). The main clinical features of pEDS in adults are early severe periodontitis, generalized lack of attached gingiva, and pretibial hemosiderin plaques due to dominant pathogenic variants in the C1R or C1S genes. MethodsNineteen children with a parent diagnosed with molecularly confirmed pEDS underwent physical examination including oral and radiological investigations followed by genetic testing. ResultsThe only consistent manifestation of pEDS in childhood was a characteristic gingival phenotype: generalized lack of attached gingiva. All children with this gingival phenotype had inherited the familial pathogenic variant (n = 12) whereas the gingival phenotype was absent in children without the familial pathogenic variant (n = 7). Easy bruising was reported in eight affected and zero unaffected children. Other manifestations of pEDS were rarely present in children. Only 2/12 affected children aged 8 and 13 years fulfilled the clinical criteria for pEDS. ConclusionGeneralized lack of attached gingiva is a pathognomonic feature of pEDS and the only clinical finding that is consistently present in affected adults and children. This is important because an early diagnosis may facilitate better dental hygiene in childhood, which may be essential to prevent early dental loss.

Prepubertal Periodontitis in a Patient with Combined Classical and Periodontal Ehlers–Danlos Syndrome

We report an extremely rare case of combined classical and periodontal Ehlers−Danlos syndrome (EDS) with early severe periodontitis and a generalized lack of attached gingiva. A German family with classical EDS was investigated by physical and dental evaluation and exome and Sanger sequencing. Due to the specific periodontal phenotype in the affected child, an additional diagnosis of periodontal EDS was suspected. Physical and genetic examination of two affected and three unaffected family members revealed a family diagnosis of classical EDS with a heterozygous mutation in COL5A1 (c.1502del; p.Pro501Leufs*57). Additional to the major clinical criteria for classical EDS—generalized joint hypermobility, hyperelastic skin, and atrophic scarring —the child aged four years presented with generalized alveolar bone loss up to 80%, early loss of two lower incisors, severe gingival recession, and generalized lack of attached gingiva. Due to these clinical findings, an additional diagnosis of periodontal EDS was suspected. Further genetic analysis revealed the novel missense mutation c.658T>G (p.Cys220Gly) in C1R in a heterozygous state. Early severe periodontitis in association with generalized lack of attached gingiva is pathognomonic for periodontal EDS and led to the right clinical and genetic diagnosis in the present case.

Vascular Type of Ehlers–Danlos Syndrome – a Rare Monogenic Connective Tissue Disease

The Ehlers-Danlos syndrome is a rare (orphan) disease characterized by the connective tissue dysplasia, fragility of the blood vessels and tissues, and variable clinical pattern. The vascular type of Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, which belongs to Group A according to the classification of 2017, is caused by the mutations in gene of alpha-1 chain of type III collagen COL3A1. The disease is characterized by the high mortality rate of the patients due to the spontaneous ruptures of the vascular walls and hollow viscera. The International Consortium (2017) developed the criteria for the clinical diagnosis of the vascular type of Ehlers – Danlos syndrome. The clinical case of the 16-year-old male patient with vascular type of Ehlers – Danlos syndrome is presented. The molecular genetic testing revealed in the child the previously described pathogenic mutation of splice site p.Gly798_Pro815del of COL3A1 gene associated with the severe course of the disease. In spite of the set of therapy measures aimed at the vascular reinforcement, stimulation and normalization of energy and mineral metabolism, the death occurred in 10 months due to the rupture of the aorta and renal artery. The Conclusion of the forensic medical examination is presented. The results of the care presented indicate that in order to avoid the omission of patients, it is advisable to revise the minimum set of signs required for the clinical diagnosis.

Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome: Molecular and Clinical Characterization of TNXA/TNXB Chimeras in Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia.

The syndrome CAH-X is due to a contiguous gene deletion of CYP21A2 and TNXB resulting in TNXA/TNXB chimeras. To analyze TNXB gene status and to clinically evaluate the Ehlers-Danlos syndrome phenotype in a large cohort of Argentine congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) patients to assess the prevalence of this condition in our population. TNXB gene analysis was performed in 66 nonrelated CAH patients that were carriers of the CYP21A2 gene deletion. A molecular strategy based on multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification and Sanger sequencing analysis was developed allowing for the detection of different, previously described TNXA/TNXB chimeras, named CH1, CH2, and CH3. The main outcome measures were TNXB status of CAH patients that were carriers of the CYP21A2 deletion in the homozygous or heterozygous state. TNXA/TNXB CH1 was found in 41%, CH2 in 29%, and CH3 in 1% of nonrelated alleles carrying the CYP21A2 deletion. Thus, overall 71% of alleles were found to carry a contiguous gene deletion. Sixty-seven percent of patients analyzed had a monoallelic form and 6% a biallelic form. All patients with the biallelic form had severe skin hyperextensibility and generalized joint hypermobility. Based on the high frequency of TNXB alterations found in CYP21A2 deletion carrier alleles, we recommend evaluating TNXB status in these patients, and assessing connective tissue dysplasia, including cardiologic alterations in positive cases. The number of patients undergoing cardiological evaluation should be expanded to determine the incidence of structural and functional abnormalities in this cohort.

Psychological Features in a Family affected by Hypermobile Ehlers- Danlos Syndrome (hEDS)

Psychological Features in a Family affected by Hypermobile Ehlers- Danlos Syndrome (hEDS)

Clinical and genetic aspects in the Ehlers Danlos syndrome

Clinical and genetic aspects in the Ehlers Danlos syndrome

VETCOSED study: efficacy of compressive garments for patients with hypermobile Ehlers–Danlos syndrome on shoulder stability and muscles strength

Purpose to assess the effect of wearing a compressive short-sleeve jacket on shoulder stability and rotator muscles in adult patients with a hypermobile subtype of Ehlers–Danlos syndrome. Materials and methods a quasi-experimental study with “Pre/Post” design (4 weeks with versus 4 weeks without), open, conducted on a national cohort. Shoulder rotators were assessed with an isokinetic device at 180°/s and 90°/s; frequency of shoulder stability defects, pain (Visual Analogical Scale), and satisfaction (Quebec User Evaluation of Satisfaction with Assistive Technology) were reported. Results 36 patients (35 women), mean age 37.9 years, wore jackets for a meanly 7.8 h/day. >70% were satisfied with the effect on arthralgia, instability, or function. QUEST results were high (m = 4.1, SD = 0.7). After jacket wear, the power of external rotators at 180°/s was significantly increased (+1.29 W, CI95%: 0.31; 2.28; p = 0.0318). At 90°/s, no significant difference was found, either on power or strength. The on-off effect highlights a significant difference in external and internal rotators power, whatever the speed. The occurrence of subluxation (p = 0.0140) and dislocations (p = 0.0163) decreased. Pain decreased from 3.5/10 to 2.5/10, without significance (p = 0.0964). Conclusion compressive CICATREX SED® jackets are well supported by patients, impact the power of external rotators at high speed (180°/s), and improve joint stability. IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATION Compressive garments made to measure are beneficial to patients with hypermobile Ehlers–Danlos syndrome. Compressive CICATREX SED® jackets clearly improve shoulder stability and help to promote muscle power in shoulder external rotators during high-speed movements. One month of jacket wearing seems to bring no lasting effect on shoulder-rotator power, so the jacket needs to be kept on for the benefits to be maintained.

A dynamic approach to gynaecomastia

Introduction: Gynaecomastia is characterized by enlargement of the male breast, caused by glandular proliferation and fat deposition. Although a fairly common presentation in the primary care setting and is mostly of benign etiology, it can cause patient considerable anxiety. Sometimes it could be due to serious underlying illness or a medication or inherited. Breast cancer risk is slightly higher in males with gynaecomastia. Aim: To determine the prevalence, pathophysiology, etiology and therapy of gynaecomastia. A stepwise approach that includes imaging and laboratory testing to exclude neoplasms and endocrinopathies. Materials and Methods: A one year prospective study of twenty four gynaecomastia cases was done. A detailed clinical history taken and physical examination was done. Laboratory investigations like hepatic, renal and thyroid function tests, hormonal levels like serum estradiol, testosterone, follicular stimulating & luteinizing hormone levels, prolactin, human chorionic gonadotropin and dehydroepiandrosterone levels were done. Other investigating aids like MRI and ultrasonography, mammography, cytogenetics were useful in some of them. However, histopathology proved to be gold standard. Results: We had twenty four cases of gynaecomastia of which there were one case of Klinefelter syndrome, five cases each of idiopathic gynaecomastia, two case each of true hermaphroditism, one case each of androgen insensitivity syndrome, Ehlers danlos syndrome, cirrhosis, drug induced, renal failure, hyperthyroidism, testicular torsion, androgen insensitivity syndrome, choriocarcinoma, pituitary adenoma, adrenal neoplasm and Leydig cell tumour. Six cases were those of physiological gynaecomastia. Conclusions: Gynaecomastia is a common condition that may be attributable to an oestrogen /androgen imbalance caused by several etiological factors. After confirming the diagnosis, searching for a specific cause and classifying the case according to severity grade, the therapy

Further Evidence of a Recessive Variant in COL1A1 as an Underlying Cause of Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome: A Report of a Saudi Founder Mutation.

Ehlers–Danlos syndrome (EDS) is a group of clinically and genetically heterogeneous disorder of soft connective tissues. The hallmark clinical features of the EDS are hyperextensible skin, hypermobile joints, and fragile vessels. It exhibits associated symptoms including contractures of muscles, kyphoscoliosis, spondylodysplasia, dermatosparaxis, periodontitis, and arthrochalasia. The aim of this study is to determine the exact subtype of EDS by molecular genetic testing in a family segregating EDS in an autosomal recessive manner. Herein, we describe a family with two individuals afflicted with EDS. Whole exome sequencing identified a homozygous missense mutation (c.2050G > A; p.Glu684Lys) in the COL1A1 gene in both affected individuals, although heterozygous variants in the COL1A1 are known to cause EDS. Recently, only one report showed homozygous variant as an underlying cause of the EDS in two Saudi families. This is the second report of a homozygous variant in the COL1A1 gene in a family of Saudi origin. Heterozygous carriers of COL1A1 variant are asymptomatic. Interestingly, the homozygous variant identified previously and the one identified in this study are same (c.2050G > A). The identification of a unique homozygous mutation (c.2050G > A) in three Saudi families argues in favor of a founder effect.

Visual Outcome After Sutureless Scleral Fixation of Intraocular Lens

Purpose: To study the results of sutureless scleral fixation of intraocular lens (IOL) in cases of complicated cataract surgery.
 Study Design: Interventional case series.
 Place and Duration of Study: Niazi Medical and Dental College Sargodha from Jan 2018 to Dec 2019.
 Methods: Twenty-five eyes of 25 consecutive patients were selected for this study. Patients of traumatic cataract with zonular dehiscence, patients who had per-operative complications like PC rent with insufficient capsular bag, and children with subluxated lens of Marfan, Ehler Danlos syndrome were included in this study. After routine investigation all patients were operated under local anesthesia except children, who were operated under general anesthesia. Sclerotomies were made at 3 and 9 o’clock positions with MVR blade. Sutureless scleral fixation of intraocular lens was done. The haptics of lenses were buried in the scleral pockets which were already made at 3 and 9 o‘clock position. Post-operative antibiotics and steroids were given for 8 weeks and patients were followed up for two years.
 Results: Out of 25, 18 (72%) female patients and 7 (28%) male patients underwent surgery. Most of the patients had previous surgical complications of Posterior capsular rent 15 (60%). Four (16%) patients had eye trauma, three had lens subluxation for pseudo-exfoliation and 3 patients (children) were suffering from Marfan Syndrome. Seventy-two percent patients had visual acuity of more than 6/18, 16% had 6/18 to 6/24 and 12% had 6/24 to 6/60.
 Conclusion: Properly done suture-less scleral fixation is a safe technique with little chance of IOL dislocation.
 Key Words: Scleral fixation, Intraocular lens, Cataract.

Abstract 15129: Outcomes Related to Age of Elective Surgery and Age of Dissection Within Genetically Triggered Aneurysm Conditions: The Gentac Experience

Introduction: The GenTAC Registry ( G enetically Triggered T horacic A ortic Aneurysms and Cardiovascular C onditions) followed patients with aortopathies over 8 years among 8 centers with the goal of evaluating cardiovascular outcomes. Methods: Enrollment initiated in 2007, and data were collected until 2015. We included diagnoses with >100 participants: Bicuspid aortic valve with aneurysm (BAV, n=879), Marfan syndrome (MFS, n=861), Familial thoracic aortic aneurysm or dissection (FTAAD, n=378), Other thoracic aortic aneurysm at < 50 years of age (Other<50, n=524), Turner syndrome (TS, n=298), Vascular Ehlers Danlos syndrome (VEDS, n=149), and Loeys-Dietz syndrome (LDS, n=121). We identified patients who underwent elective ascending aortic replacement, total unique dissections, and time to first dissection. With MFS as a reference population and adjusted for sex, endpoints were analyzed by a Firth penalized Cox-PH regression model to account for diagnosis groups with low event numbers. Results: LDS participants at a mean age of (24.5 ± 15.0y) were youngest at elective aortic surgery followed by MFS (32.3 ±12.3y), TS (37.6 ±13.6y), VEDS (35.0 ±SD 7.4y), Other<50 (40.3 ±SD 10.3y), FTAAD (42.9 ±14.2y), and BAV(49.4 ± 13.8 y). Dissections were reported in all diagnosis groups with a total of 472 unique dissections in 3210 patients (14%). Mean age at first dissection was in the third decade for LDS, TS, MFS, VEDS and in the fourth decade for BAV, FTAD, and Other<50. Adjusted hazard ratio for time to first dissection was higher in LDS, 1.77 (95%CI 1.14- 2.77), compared to MFS and other diagnosis groups (Figure 1). Conclusions: Reported aortic dissections were prominent in the GenTAC cohort. Despite elective surgery at a younger age, LDS patients had a higher hazard risk of dissection compared to other diagnosis groups.

Correlation between Oral Health-Related Quality of Life and Objectively Measured Oral Health in People with Ehlers-Danlos Syndromes.

It is a well-known fact that people with Ehlers–Danlos syndromes (EDS) report a worse oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) than the general population. The aim of this study was to examine whether there is a correlation between the subjective OHRQoL and the objectively measured oral health in people with EDS. To determine the subjective OHRQoL, the German version of the 14-item Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP-14) questionnaire was used. Furthermore, all participants in the study were clinically examined, and the measured parameters were recorded using the Physical Oral Health Index (PhOX). Altogether, records of 46 participants were collected. The median (interquartile range (IQR)) of the OHIP-14 was 17 (23) points and the median of the PhOX was 73 (16) points. However, a statistically significant correlation could not be demonstrated (r = −0.240, p = 0.108). In the observed cohort, for participants who reported having pain often or very often, the OHIP score (median = 24, IQR = 18, p < 0.01) was higher than the score of the group given by participants who never or intermittently experienced pain (median = 8, IQR = 18). In conclusion, patients with EDS showed a reduced OHRQoL, although it was not possible to observe an association between the subjective OHRQoL and the objective oral health. However, participants who often or very often suffer from pain in their tooth, mouth, and jaw areas showed a reduced OHRQoL.

A Heterozygous Missense Variant in the COL5A2 in Holstein Cattle Resembling the Classical Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome.

Simple SummaryGenodermatoses represent inherited disorders of the skin that mostly follow a monogenic mode of inheritance. Heritable connective tissue disorders such as classical Ehlers–Danlos syndrome (cEDS) belong to this group of human rare diseases that sporadically occur in other species. Herein, affected cattle are reported showing skin lesions including cutis laxa clinically and pathologically resembling cEDS in humans. Microscopic findings in the deeper dermis were consistent with collagen dysplasia. Whole-genome sequencing (WGS) identified a most likely disease-causing mutation in the COL5A2 gene. The COL5A2 gene is known to be associated with dominant inherited cEDS forms in mice and humans, but so far, it was not shown to cause a similar phenotype in domestic animals. The disease phenotype examined herein showed co-segregation with the identified missense variant within the maternal line across two generations and is most likely due to a spontaneous mutation event. Rare non-lethal disorders such as cEDS in livestock are mostly not diagnosed, but might affect animal welfare and thus lower the value of affected animals. WGS-based precision diagnostics allows understanding rare disorders and supports the value of surveillance of cattle breeding populations for harmful genetic disorders.Classical Ehlers–Danlos syndrome (cEDS) is a heritable connective tissue disorder characterized by variable degrees of skin hyperextensibility and fragility, atrophic scarring, and generalized joint hypermobility. The purpose of this study was to characterize the clinicopathological phenotype of a cEDS-affected Holstein calf and to identify the causative genetic variant associated with the disorder by whole-genome sequencing (WGS). A 3-day-old female Holstein calf was referred because of easily induced skin detachment and hyperextensibility in the neck. A complete clinical investigation was performed in the calf, dam, and maternal-grandmother. The calf and dam showed hyperextensibility of the neck skin and atrophic scarring; additionally, the calf presented skin fragility. Moreover, the histopathology of biopsies from the calf and its dam showed that the collagen bundles in affected skin areas were wavy, short, thin, and surrounded by edema and moderate to severe acute hemorrhages. Genetic analysis revealed a private heterozygous missense variant in COL5A2 (c.2366G>T; p.Gly789Val) that was present only in the calf and dam. This confirmed the diagnosis of cEDS and represents the first report of a causal variant for cEDS in cattle and the first COL5A2-related large animal model.

Collagen XII mediated cellular and extracellular mechanisms regulate establishment of tendon structure and function

Tendons have a uniaxially aligned structure with a hierarchical organization of collagen fibrils crucial for tendon function. Collagen XII is expressed in tendons and has been implicated in the regulation of fibrillogenesis. It is a non-fibrillar collagen belonging to the Fibril-Associated Collagens with Interrupted Triple Helices (FACIT) family. Mutations in COL12A1 cause myopathic Ehlers Danlos Syndrome with a clinical phenotype involving both joints and tendons supporting critical role(s) for collagen XII in tendon development and function. Here we demonstrate the molecular function of collagen XII during tendon development using a Col12a1 null mouse model. Col12a1 deficiency altered tenocyte shape, formation of interacting cell processes, and organization resulting in impaired cell–cell communication and disruption of hierarchal structure as well as decreased tissue stiffness. Immuno-localization revealed that collagen XII accumulated on the tenocyte surface and connected adjacent tenocytes by building matrix bridges between the cells, suggesting that collagen XII regulates intercellular communication. In addition, there was a decrease in fibrillar collagen I in collagen XII deficient tenocyte cultures compared with controls suggesting collagen XII signaling specifically alters tenocyte biosynthesis. This suggests that collagen XII provides feedback to tenocytes regulating extracellular collagen I. Together, the data indicate dual roles for collagen XII in determination of tendon structure and function. Through association with fibrils it functions in fibril packing, fiber assembly and stability. In addition, collagen XII influences tenocyte organization required for assembly of higher order structure; intercellular communication necessary to coordinate long range order and feedback on tenocytes influencing collagen synthesis. Integration of both regulatory roles is required for the acquisition of hierarchal structure and mechanical properties.

Classical-like Ehlers–Danlos syndrome: a clinical description of 20 newly identified individuals with evidence of tissue fragility

PurposeCurrently, 31 patients with classical-like EDS (clEDS) due to tenascin-X deficiency have been reported in the literature. We report on the clinical and molecular characteristics of 20 additional patients with clEDS to expand knowledge and to enable improved management of this rare genetic disorder. MethodsPatients diagnosed with clEDS by the national EDS service in the UK (n=21) and abroad (n=1) were asked for consent for publication of their clinical and molecular data. ResultsOf 22 patients, 20 consented. All patients had typical features of clEDS: joint hypermobility, easy bruising, and skin hyperextensibility without atrophic scars. Importantly, 3/20 patients experienced gastrointestinal complications consisting of small or large bowel ruptures and one esophageal rupture. Other notable observations included two separate occurrences of spontaneous compartment syndrome, suspicion of nonaccidental injury due to significant bruising, and significant clinical variability regarding the debilitating effect of joint dislocations. ConclusionsWe propose a predisposition to tissue fragility, particularly of the gastrointestinal tract in patients with clEDS. As such, clinical and molecular confirmation of this diagnosis is essential. It is recommended to follow up these patients closely to understand the natural history to develop better recommendations for management.

Cardiac involvement in classical or hypermobile Ehlers–Danlos syndrome is uncommon

PurposeCardiac–valvular and vascular Ehlers–Danlos syndrome (EDS) have significant cardiovascular issues. The prevalence and significance of such abnormalities in classical (cEDS) or hypermobile EDS (hEDS) remain unclear. We report the prevalence of cardiac abnormalities in patients with cEDS and hEDS. MethodsWe identified 532 pediatric patients with potential EDS evaluated at our institution from January 2014 through April 2019 by retrospective chart review. Ninety-five patients (12 cEDS and 83 hEDS patients) met 2017 EDS diagnostic criteria and had an echocardiogram. One patient was excluded due to complex congenital heart disease, and two were excluded due to lack of images. We reviewed echocardiograms for all structural abnormalities. ResultsOf these 95 patients, 1 had mild aortic root dilation, and 1 had mild ascending aorta dilation in the setting of a bicuspid aortic valve. Eleven patients (11.6%) had a cardiac valve abnormality, all of which were trivial to mild. None of the patients required cardiac intervention. ConclusionOur results demonstrate that aortic dilation and valvular anomalies are uncommon in cEDS or hEDS patients. Given the lack of evidence, we do not recommend echocardiographic evaluation and surveillance in patients with cEDS and hEDS in the absence of clinical findings or positive family history.

Pain Symptomatology and Management in Pediatric Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome: A Review.

Ehlers–Danlos syndromes (EDS) are a group of connective tissue disorders that manifest with hyperextensibility of joints and skin, and general tissue fragility. While not a major criterion for clinical diagnosis, pain is a frequently endorsed symptom across subtypes of EDS. As such, the present review aims to summarize research to date on pain characteristics and management, and the relationship between such pain symptomatology and quality of life in pediatric EDS. Characteristics of pain, including theorized etiology, relative intensity and extent of pain are described, as well as descriptions of frequently endorsed pain sites (musculoskeletal, and non-musculoskeletal). Interventions related to the management of musculoskeletal (e.g., pharmaceutical intervention, physical therapy) and non-musculoskeletal pain (e.g., pharmaceutical and psychological interventions) are discussed, highlighting the need for additional research related to pediatric pain management in the context of hypermobility syndromes. In addition, the relationship between pain in pediatric EDS and quality of life is described. Finally, limitations of literature to date are described and recommendations for future lines of research are outlined.

Current management of the vascular subtype of Ehlers-Danlos syndrome.

Vascular Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (vEDS) is the most severe form of EDS, affecting the synthesis of type III collagen. It is notable for decreased life expectancy and morbidity, including spontaneous vessel rupture. The present review summarizes recent findings that have improved the ability to manage and delineate the natural history of vEDS. Recent EDS consortium guidelines for the diagnosis of vEDS have emerged and outlined clinical features and molecular diagnostic tools to help facilitate rapid diagnosis. Although medical interventions to help halt the disease progression remain limited, improved awareness of vEDS by patients and practitioners have resulted in increased average life expectancy. Early excitement with celiprolol has been tempered by a lack of high-quality studies. Likewise, the creation of multidisciplinary care teams and tertiary referral centers is helping improve outcomes. Unfortunately, there remain limitations in terms of the surgical management (including more advanced endovascular techniques) of these patients and the morbidity associated with these interventions. Although new consensus guidelines have emerged to facilitate the diagnosis of those with vEDS, there remain limitations in terms of interventions and medical therapy that can be provided for these patients. Life expectancy does appear to be improving however with increased awareness and coordinated multidisciplinary efforts among medical geneticists, general practitioners, and interventionalists alike.

Oral Conditions and Oral Health-Related Quality of Life of People with Ehlers-Danlos Syndromes (EDS): A Questionnaire-Based Cross-Sectional Study.

Background and objective: To date, there have only been a few studies on oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) of people with Ehlers–Danlos syndromes (EDS) and oral conditions. The aim of this study was, therefore, to analyze the OHRQoL of people with EDS from their own point of view as well as obtain information about their age at the time of the diagnosis, the period of time until diagnosis, and the presence of oral conditions (if any) and their association with oral health quality. Methods: The study was designed as an anonymous questionnaire-based cross-sectional study. We conducted a descriptive analysis of the Oral Health Impact Profile-14 (OHIP-14) scores, age of the participants, age at diagnosis, and the time-period between the first signs of the disease and the diagnosis of EDS. To verify the differences in OHIP-14 scores between patients with and without oral conditions, a Mann–Whitney U test was performed. A multivariate quantile (median) regression analysis was performed to evaluate the effect of different general characteristics (gender, age, and the presence of oral conditions) on the OHIP 14 scores. Furthermore, using a Mann–Whitney U test, the influence of different oral conditions was verified by testing the differences between patients without any oral conditions and patients with a specific diagnosis. Results: A total of 79 evaluable questionnaires from 66 female (83.5%) and 13 male (16.5%) participants were analyzed. On average, after the first condition, it takes 18.36 years before EDS are correctly diagnosed. Oral conditions were described by 69.6% of the participants. The median (interquartile range) OHIP-14 score was eight (ten) points for patients without oral conditions and 19 (15) for patients with oral conditions. The multivariable quantile regression shows a statistical notable association between OHIP-14 score and oral conditions (p < 0.001). OHIP-14 scores for dysgnathia, periodontitis, TMD (Temporomandibular dysfunction), a high-arched palate, malocclusion, and the anomaly of tooth formation were statistical notably different between the participants with and the participants without oral conditions. Conclusions: Long diagnostic pathways seem to be a typical problem in patients with EDS. Oral conditions associated with the underlying disease occurred regularly and showed a negative correlation with OHRQoL.

Psychosocial Influence of Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome in Daily Life of Patients: A Qualitative Study.

(1) Background: Ehlers–Danlos syndrome is a heterogeneous group of connective tissue disorders causing pain, fatigue, and disabilities; it has several implications for patients who suffer from this disease. The major clinical manifestations of EDS include joint hypermobility, skin hyperextensibility, and generalized connective tissue fragility. This research aims to explore their perceptions and experiences about the phycological and social spheres. (2) Methods: Semistructured interviews were carried out. Participants were encouraged to talk about issues related to their disease by asking open-ended questions in one to one interview. The interview guide included questions to identify the syndrome’s influence on the social and psychological life of patients All interviews were audio recorded, fully transcribed, and analyzed using the phenomenological theoretical framework. The method of analysis was the thematic interpreting of perspectives and approaches. (3) Results: 31 individuals were proposed to participate in this study. Five patients refused to participate, so a total of 26 interviews were performed. Six themes ((1) Pain and its consequences on a daily basis; (2) The need to name the problem: the diagnosis; (3) Restructuring leisure and social relationships; (4) Limitations due to economic conditions; (5) Psychological impact of the disease situation; (6) Professional limitations) and four subthemes ((1) The value of partner support; (2) The weather influence on social plans; (3) Physical exercise and illness; (4) Support groups) emerged from the data. (4) Conclusions: This study revealed the impact of the syndrome on the social and daily life of patients, and not only in a physical level, but also in a psychological and social approach. These findings allow healthcare providers to know more about this disease in order to support and give advice to patients about the changes they will have to make.