Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS)

Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS) refers to a group of genetic connective tissue disorders that cause hypermobility — loose and overly flexible joints — and fragile, stretchy skin. Some forms of EDS are mild, and others may cause life-threatening complications.

UPMC experts take a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach to EDS care, providing personalized treatment for a range of symptoms that affect different areas of your body.

On this page

• What Is Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS)?
• What Are the Symptoms of EDS?
• How Do You Diagnose EDS?
• How Do You Treat EDS?

What Is Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS)?

EDS refers to a group of genetic connective tissue disorders that cause loose, overly flexible joints and fragile, stretchy skin. Some forms of EDS are mild, and others may cause life-threatening complications.

What are the types of EDS? 

There are 13 types of EDS, including:

• Arthrochalasia EDS — Symptoms include severe joint hypermobility that causes hip dislocation, fragile skin, and abnormal curvature of the spine.
• Brittle cornea syndrome (BCS) — Symptoms include a thin cornea that causes vision problems.
• Cardiac-valvular EDS — Symptoms include cardiac valve disorders, skin problems, and overly flexible joints.
• Classical EDS — Symptoms include stretchy skin with flat scars that bruise easily and overly flexible joints.
• Classical-like EDS — Symptoms include velvety skin, overly flexible joints, and easy bruising.
• Dermatosparaxis EDS — Symptoms include extremely fragile skin and hernias.
• Hypermobile EDS — Symptoms include overly flexible joints, muscle and bone pain, and velvety skin that bruises easily.
• Kyphoscoliosis EDS — Symptoms include low muscle tone at birth, delayed motor development, and abnormal curvature of the spine (scoliosis) that gets worse over time.
• Musculocontractual EDS — Symptoms include fragile skin, clubfoot, and contractures (short, tight muscles, tendons, and ligaments) that limit range of motion in the joints.
• Myopathic EDS — Symptoms include low muscle tone, contractures in some joints, and hypermobility in others.
• Peridontal EDS — Symptoms include severe, early onset gum disease that is often resistant to treatment.
• Spondylodysplastic EDS — Symptoms include short stature, low muscle tone, and bowed limbs.
• Vascular EDS — Symptoms include thin skin that bruises easily and an increased risk of ruptured arteries and organs.

How common is EDS?

Researchers estimate that 1 in 5,000 people worldwide have some form of EDS. Hypermobile EDS and hypermobility spectrum disorders are the most common types of EDS.

What causes EDS?

EDS results from a change in your DNA sequence called a genetic variant. Some genetic variants that cause EDS can be inherited from a biological parent. Other types of EDS occur spontaneously.

What are EDS risk factors and complications?

EDS risk factors

You may be at increased risk of developing EDS if you have a biological parent who has EDS.

Complications of EDS

EDS can cause complications, including:

• Abnormal curvature of your spine or limbs.
• Dental and gum problems.
• Dislocated joints.
• Eye problems, including thin corneas.
• Heart valve disorders.
• Organ or blood vessel rupture.
• Stroke.

How can I prevent EDS? 

EDS is caused by a genetic variant. There is nothing you can do to prevent it.

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What Are the Signs and Symptoms of EDS?

EDS symptoms may be different depending on the type of EDS you have.

Common symptoms include:

• Fatigue.
• Fragile skin that bruises or scars easily and heals slowly.
• Overly flexible joints.
• Painful muscles or joints.
• Thin, soft, or stretchy skin.

When should I see a doctor about my EDS symptoms?

EDS is often diagnosed in early childhood. However, if you notice EDS symptoms in yourself or your child, you should schedule an appointment with your doctor right away. Early diagnosis and treatment can reduce the risk of serious complications.

If you experience joint dislocation, visit your nearest hospital emergency department. If you experience signs of stroke or other severe symptoms, dial 911.

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How Do You Diagnose EDS? 

To diagnose EDS, your doctor will perform a physical exam and review your symptoms and medical history. Your doctor may also order genetic or other tests, if needed.

What to expect during your visit

To diagnose EDS, your doctor will:

• Ask you about your symptoms.
• Order genetic or other tests, if needed.
• Perform a physical exam.
• Review your medical history.

Tests to diagnose EDS

Your doctor may refer you for genetic counseling and testing to determine whether you have a gene variant that causes EDS. During genetic testing, a sample of your blood will be sent to the lab for analysis.

Your doctor may also order imaging tests to check for problems in your joints, arteries, or organs, depending on your symptoms.

EDS prognosis

There is no cure for EDS, and the condition requires lifelong treatment. Your doctor will help you manage your risk of complications.

What is the life expectancy of people with EDS?

Most people with EDS can live normal lives with an average life expectancy.

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How Do You Treat EDS?

The goal of EDS treatment is to manage symptoms and reduce your risk of complications.

Treatment options include:

Lifestyle modifications for EDS

Your doctor may recommend lifestyle changes to reduce your risk of complications, including:

• Avoiding strenuous physical activity, such as heavy lifting, contact sports, or high-impact exercise.
• Protecting your skin from sun damage and bruising.
• Wearing specialized braces to provide joint support.

Physical therapy for EDS

If you have low muscle tone or unstable joints, your doctor may recommend physical therapy to strengthen your muscles.

Monitoring and follow-up care for EDS

Depending on your symptoms, your doctor may recommend ongoing monitoring and follow-up care from medical specialists, including dermatologists, vascular specialists, cardiologists, or orthopaedic specialists.

Why Choose UPMC for EDS Care?

When you choose UPMC for EDS care, you will receive:

• Access to board-certified specialists — Our multidisciplinary team includes cardiologists, vascular specialists, orthopaedic specialists, and dermatologists who treat all types of EDS symptoms, including heart, skin, joint, and blood vessel problems.
• Expert diagnosis and personalized care — Your team will partner with you to provide lifelong EDS management and follow-up care, addressing any new symptoms that develop over time.
• A full range of treatment options — Our team offers some of the latest therapies to manage EDS symptoms and provides complete and seamless care for any serious complications.

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By UPMC Editorial Staff. Last reviewed on 2025-11-03.