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Comorbidities in Ehlers-Danlos syndromes and hypermobile spectrum disorders

Wang TJ, Serrano-Ardila AM

Acta ortopedica mexicana, 2026

37 participants

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: hypermobile spectrum disorders (HSD) and Ehlers-Danlos syndromes (EDS) are connective tissue disorders often associated with systemic manifestations such as mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS), postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS), irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and autoimmune conditions, including spondyloarthritis (SpA). The overlap of these conditions complicates diagnosis and treatment. This study investigates the prevalence of MCAS and other comorbidities, as well as patterns of medication use, in individuals with HSD/EDS.

MATERIAL AND METHODS: this cross-sectional study included 37 participants diagnosed with HSD or EDS based on the 2017 Diagnostic Consensus Criteria. Participants were divided into two groups: 23 with SpA + EDS and 14 with EDS-only. Demographic variables, comorbidities, and medication use (biologics, disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs [DMARDs], and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs [NSAIDs]) were analyzed using comparative statistical methods.

RESULTS: MCAS was significantly less prevalent in SpA + EDS participants (13%) compared to the EDS-only group (85.7%, p 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS: the lower MCAS prevalence in SpA + EDS may reflect symptom overlap or suppression due to immunomodulatory treatments. Differences in medication use highlight variations in diagnostic and therapeutic strategies. Comprehensive evaluations are essential to ensure accurate diagnoses and optimal treatment approaches.

INTRODUCCIÓN: los trastornos…

How strong is the evidence?

Evidence Hub reads this as a cross-sectional, done in people. Its evidence level is 4 of 5 (Low · observational). Observational designs can show an association but not prove cause. Reported size: 37 participants or records.

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