Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS) is a group of inherited tissue
disorders. This syndrome affects collagen, which plays a major role in holding
together, strengthening, and providing elasticity to body cells and tissues.
Symptoms and signs of EDS include abnormally flexible, loose
joints that may easily become dislocated; unusually loose, thin, stretchy
(elastic) skin; and excessive fragility of the skin, blood vessels, and other
body tissues and membranes.
The many types of EDS are classified
using Roman numerals (EDS I to EDS XI), based upon each type's symptoms, signs,
and underlying cause.
