Best Practice Case Studies-Ehlers-Danlos in Athletes

Pdf Summary

The document discusses Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) and its implications for athletes. EDS is a group of inherited connective tissue disorders affecting collagen, characterized by joint hypermobility, skin extensibility, and tissue fragility. Athletes with EDS commonly experience joint pain, instability, and dislocations, alongside features like "cigarette paper" scarring, pes planus, and mitral valve prolapse. The vascular type of EDS presents significant risks, including the potential for aortic or visceral rupture, which may result in sudden death.<br /><br />Diagnosing EDS involves a thorough history and physical examination rather than solely relying on genetic tests. Classification systems for EDS have evolved, with the 1997 Villefranche nosology simplifying it into six types: classical, hypermobile, vascular, kyphoscoliosis, arthrochalasia, and dermatosparaxis. Athletes with EDS are advised to undergo rigorous cardiothoracic and orthopedic screening.<br /><br />EDS poses musculoskeletal challenges, as affected individuals may experience chronic pain, particularly those with the hypermobile type. Joint instability, especially in extremities, is prevalent among EDS patients, who benefit from strength and proprioception training, ergonomic lifestyle adjustments, and avoidance of high-impact sports. Surgery is considered only when conservative treatments fail and involves tailored considerations to accommodate EDS-related tissue fragility.<br /><br />Cardiovascular assessment is important, given the potential for valvular involvement, aortic aneurysms, and small vessel abnormalities in EDS patients. Those with the vascular type are strongly discouraged from engaging in competitive athletics. Gastrointestinal complications, including risks of rupture, require careful management, favoring laparoscopic approaches during necessary surgeries.<br /><br />Overall, while EDS presents numerous challenges, including concerns related to musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, and dermatologic health, appropriate management can help athletes remain active. Interdisciplinary consultation is recommended to tailor care for athletes with EDS, ensuring optimal safety and health outcomes.

Meta Tag

Edition 2nd Edition

Related Case 2nd Edition, CASE 47

Topic Rheumatology

Keywords

2nd Edition, CASE 47

2nd Edition

Rheumatology

Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome

athletes

connective tissue disorders

joint hypermobility

vascular type

diagnosis

musculoskeletal challenges

cardiovascular assessment

management

interdisciplinary consultation