Lions and Tigers and Zebras, Oh My! Recognition, Evaluation, and Treatment of Ehlers-Danlos Syndromes & Hypermobility Spectrum Disorders (EDS/HSD) in Clinical Practice [F23]

Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome and Hypermobility Syndrome Disorders (EDS/HSD) are genetic disorders that affect connective tissue matrix proteins, but until recently these have had little clinical recognition or understanding. There are 13 heritable connective tissue disorders under the umbrella of EDS, they all share some degree of joint hypermobility, skin hyperextensibility, and tissue fragility though they present differently. EDS and HSD affect collagen and elastin and contribute to many physical and behavioral health symptoms, such as anxiety, depression, gastrointestinal problems, sleep challenges, fatigue, vertigo, tinnitus, or pain, and often overlap with neurodevelopmental disorders such as ADHD and autism. Gaining an understanding of Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome and Hypermobility Syndrome Disorders (EDS/HSD) with co-occurring challenges may help providers to give more holistic care, which will improve patient quality of life. This presentation will help practitioners to become familiar with EDS/HSD symptomatology, diagnostic criteria, genetic testing options, referrals to consider, co-occurring disorders to consider, and medication/supplements to apply in primary or specialty care practice.