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Akesson C, Richards EG, Yao M, Ross J, Grima J, May L, Roversi G, Ferrando CA. Pelvic Floor Dysfunction Among Persons With Marfan and Loeys-Dietz Syndrome. UROGYNECOLOGY (PHILADELPHIA, PA.) 2024:02273501-990000000-00192. [PMID: 38517279 DOI: 10.1097/spv.0000000000001481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Connective tissue disorders are proposed in the literature to be predisposing risk factors for pelvic floor disorders. Prior data characterizing the prevalence of and symptom burden related to pelvic floor disorders are limited for individuals with Marfan syndrome and are nonexistent for those with Loeys-Dietz syndrome. OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence and severity of symptoms related to pelvic floor disorders among individuals with Marfan syndrome and Loeys-Dietz syndrome using the Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory-20 (PFDI-20). STUDY DESIGN In this cross-sectional study, a survey including the PFDI-20 was administered to biologically female individuals older than 18 years with a confirmed diagnosis of Marfan syndrome or Loeys-Dietz Syndrome. Respondents were solicited through the websites, email lists, and social media forums of The Marfan Foundation and The Loeys-Dietz syndrome Foundation. RESULTS A total of 286 respondents were included in the final analysis, 213 with Marfan syndrome and 73 with Loeys-Dietz syndrome. The median PFDI-20 score of the cohort was 43.8. Individuals with Loeys-Dietz syndrome had higher PFDI-20 scores and were more likely to have established risk factors for pelvic floor disorders that correlated with their PFDI-20 scores compared with those with Marfan syndrome. CONCLUSIONS Respondents with Marfan syndrome and Loeys-Dietz syndrome experience a high burden of symptoms related to pelvic floor disorders. Despite the similar pathophysiology and clinical manifestations of these disorders, there were differences in PFDI-20 responses that may suggest that these diseases differ in the ways they affect the pelvic floor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cydni Akesson
- From the Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine
| | | | - Meng Yao
- Quantitative Health Sciences, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH
| | - James Ross
- Jersey Shore University Medical Center, Neptune Township, NJ
| | | | - Lauren May
- The Marfan Foundation, Port Washington, NY
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Clark NL, Johnson M, Rangan A, Kottam L, Swainston K. The biopsychosocial impact of hypermobility spectrum disorders in adults: a scoping review. Rheumatol Int 2023; 43:985-1014. [PMID: 36894757 PMCID: PMC10126066 DOI: 10.1007/s00296-023-05298-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/11/2023]
Abstract
Joint hypermobility affects approximately 30% of the United Kingdom (UK) population, characterised by the ability to move joints beyond the physiological limits. Associated conditions include Ehlers-Danlos syndrome and hypermobility spectrum disorders, affecting individuals across physical, psychological and social levels detrimentally impacting their health and wellbeing. The scoping review aims to describe the known biopsychosocial impact of joint hypermobility conditions in adults over the last decade. Additional objectives include to (1) identify the types of studies that address these factors, (2) to understand how the impact of the condition is measured and managed and (3) what healthcare professionals (HCPs) are involved. The scoping review was conducted using the five-stage framework by Arksey and O'Malley. The search strategy related to two main keywords, "hypermobility" and, "biopsychosocial" across a number of electronic databases. A pilot search was conducted to determine the suitability of the databases and terms. Following the search, the data was extracted and charted, summarised and narratively reported. 32 studies met the inclusion criteria. The majority were conducted in either the UK or United States of America and case-control in design. The biopsychosocial impact was wide-ranging including, but not limited to, musculoskeletal system and dermatology, gastroenterology, mood and anxiety disorders, education and employments. This review is the first of its kind to summarise all reported symptoms and impact of joint hypermobility conditions in adults, highlighting a clear need to promote a multidisciplinary and holistic approach in raising awareness of these conditions and improving their management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie L Clark
- South Tees Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Middlesbrough, UK
| | - Melissa Johnson
- South Tees Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Middlesbrough, UK
| | - Amar Rangan
- South Tees Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Middlesbrough, UK.,The Mary Kinross Trust and RCS Chair, Department of Health Sciences and Hull York Medical School, University of York, York, UK
| | - Lucksy Kottam
- South Tees Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Middlesbrough, UK
| | - Katherine Swainston
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK.
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Kciuk O, Li Q, Huszti E, McDermott CD. Pelvic floor symptoms in cisgender women with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome: an international survey study. Int Urogynecol J 2023; 34:473-483. [PMID: 35751670 DOI: 10.1007/s00192-022-05273-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) is a group of inherited connective tissue disorders associated with abnormal collagen, and is more prevalent in women than in men. The aim of this cross-sectional study was to characterize pelvic floor symptoms in cisgender women with EDS and to describe their impact on quality of life. METHODS An online questionnaire on obstetric and gynecological experiences of cisgender women with EDS was disseminated through EDS patient societies and social media. This study was a sub-analysis of the broader questionnaire and focused on pelvic floor disorders, whereby self-reported symptoms and validated questionnaires were used to assess pelvic floor symptom severity (Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory, PFDI-20), impact on quality of life (Pelvic Floor Impact Questionnaire, PFIQ-7), and sexual function (Female Sexual Function Index, FSFI-6). Groups based on age and EDS type were compared using Kruskal-Wallis and Chi-squared tests. RESULTS A total of 1,303 participants were included in the analysis. Pelvic floor symptom prevalence included: stress urinary incontinence in 60%, urgency urinary incontinence in 54%, fecal incontinence in 24%, and pelvic organ prolapse in 21%. Bladder symptoms were reported to be the most bothersome. The impact of prolapse symptoms on quality of life was higher in women under age 40 than in older participants (p<0.001). Pelvic pain was reported in 71%. Pain ratings were highest for dysmenorrhea, muscle and joint pain, and backache (median 7 out of 10 for each). Almost half of participants screened positive for possible sexual dysfunction and 36% reported dyspareunia more than half the time. CONCLUSIONS This large, observational study demonstrated that cisgender women with EDS report a high prevalence of pelvic floor symptoms that appear to be more severe than in the general population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga Kciuk
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Qixuan Li
- Biostatistics Research Unit, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Ella Huszti
- Biostatistics Research Unit, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Colleen D McDermott
- Division of Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Pelvic Surgery, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Mount Sinai Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
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Zhou W, Zikos TA, Halawi H, Sheth VR, Gurland B, Nguyen LA, Neshatian L. Anorectal manometry for the diagnosis of pelvic floor disorders in patients with hypermobility spectrum disorders and hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome. BMC Gastroenterol 2022; 22:538. [PMID: 36564719 PMCID: PMC9784268 DOI: 10.1186/s12876-022-02572-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGID) including impaired rectal evacuation are common in patients with Hypermobility Spectrum Disorder (HSD) or Hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (hEDS). The effect of connective tissue pathologies on pelvic floor function in HSD/hEDS remains unclear. We aimed to compare clinical characteristics and anorectal pressure profile in patients with HSD/hEDS to those of age and sex matched controls. METHODS We conducted a retrospective review of all FGID patients who underwent high resolution anorectal manometry (HR-ARM) and balloon expulsion test (BET) for evaluation of impaired rectal evacuation. Patients with HSD/hEDS were age and sex matched to a randomly selected cohort of control patients without HSD/hEDS. An abnormal BET was defined as the inability to expel a rectal balloon within 2 minutes. Wilcoxon rank sum test and Fisher's exact test were used to make comparisons and logistic regression model for predictive factors for abnormal evacuation. RESULTS A total of 144 patients (72 with HSD/hEDS and 72 controls) were analyzed. HSD/hEDS patients were more likely to be Caucasian (p < 0.001) and nulliparous. Concurrent psychiatric disorders; depression, and anxiety (p < 0.05), and somatic syndromes; fibromyalgia, migraine and sleep disorders (p < 0.001) were more common in these patients. Rate of abnormal BET were comparable among the groups. HDS/hEDS patients had significantly less anal relaxation and higher residual anal pressures during simulated defecation, resulting in significantly more negative rectoanal pressure gradient. The remaining anorectal pressure profile and sensory levels were comparable between the groups. While diminished rectoanal pressure gradient was the determinant of abnormal balloon evacuation in non HSD/hEDS patients, increased anal resting tone and maximum volume tolerated were independent factors associated with an abnormal BET in HSD/hEDS patients. Review of defecography data from a subset of patients showed no significant differences in structural pathologies between HSD/hEDS and non HSD/hEDS patients. CONCLUSIONS These results suggest anorectal pressure profile is not compromised by connective tissue pathologies in HSD patients. Whether concurrent psychosomatic disorders or musculoskeletal involvement impact the pelvic floor function in these patients needs further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wendy Zhou
- grid.168010.e0000000419368956Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Stanford University, 430 Broadway St. Pav C 3rd Floor, GI Suite, Redwood City, CA 94063 USA
| | - Thomas A. Zikos
- grid.168010.e0000000419368956Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Stanford University, 430 Broadway St. Pav C 3rd Floor, GI Suite, Redwood City, CA 94063 USA
| | - Houssam Halawi
- grid.168010.e0000000419368956Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Stanford University, 430 Broadway St. Pav C 3rd Floor, GI Suite, Redwood City, CA 94063 USA
| | - Vipul R. Sheth
- grid.168010.e0000000419368956Department of Radiology, Stanford University, Redwood City, USA
| | - Brooke Gurland
- grid.168010.e0000000419368956Department of Surgery, Stanford Universtiy, Redwood City, USA
| | - Linda A. Nguyen
- grid.168010.e0000000419368956Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Stanford University, 430 Broadway St. Pav C 3rd Floor, GI Suite, Redwood City, CA 94063 USA
| | - Leila Neshatian
- grid.168010.e0000000419368956Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Stanford University, 430 Broadway St. Pav C 3rd Floor, GI Suite, Redwood City, CA 94063 USA
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Thwaites PA, Gibson PR, Burgell RE. Hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome and disorders of the gastrointestinal tract: What the gastroenterologist needs to know. J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2022; 37:1693-1709. [PMID: 35750466 PMCID: PMC9544979 DOI: 10.1111/jgh.15927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Revised: 05/11/2022] [Accepted: 06/14/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM Hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (hEDS) and the hypermobility spectrum disorders (HSD) can be challenging to diagnose and manage. Gastrointestinal symptoms and disorders of gut-brain interaction are common in this cohort and multifactorial in origin. The primary aim of this review is to arm the gastroenterologist with a clinically useful understanding of HSD/hEDS, by exploring the association of gastrointestinal disorders with HSD/hEDS, highlighting current pathophysiological understanding and providing a pragmatic approach to managing these patients. METHODS Literature relevant to the gastrointestinal system and hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome was systematically searched, critically appraised, and summarized. RESULTS Diagnosis is based upon clinical criteria and a genetic basis is yet to be defined. The prevalence of many gut symptoms, including abdominal pain (69% vs 27%, P < 0.0001), postprandial fullness (34% vs 16%, P = 0.01), constipation (73% vs 16%, P < 0.001), and diarrhea (47% vs 9%, P < 0.001) are significantly higher in HSD/hEDS compared with non-HSD/hEDS individuals. Disorders of gut-brain interaction are also common, particularly functional dyspepsia. The pathophysiology of gut symptoms is poorly understood but may involve effects of connective tissue laxity and its functional consequences, and the influence of autonomic dysfunction, medication and comorbid mental health disorders. Awareness is the key to early diagnosis. Management is limited in evidence-base but ideally should include an integrated multidisciplinary approach. CONCLUSIONS HSD/hEDS is a multisystemic disorder in which gastrointestinal symptoms, particularly related to disorders of gut-brain interaction are common. Deficiencies in knowledge regarding the pathophysiological processes limit evidence-based interventions and remain important areas for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phoebe A Thwaites
- Department of Gastroenterology, Central Clinical SchoolMonash University and Alfred HealthMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
| | - Peter R Gibson
- Department of Gastroenterology, Central Clinical SchoolMonash University and Alfred HealthMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
| | - Rebecca E Burgell
- Department of Gastroenterology, Central Clinical SchoolMonash University and Alfred HealthMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
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Blagowidow N. Obstetrics and gynecology in Ehlers-Danlos syndrome: A brief review and update. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF MEDICAL GENETICS. PART C, SEMINARS IN MEDICAL GENETICS 2021; 187:593-598. [PMID: 34773390 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.c.31945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2021] [Revised: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 10/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The Ehlers-Danlos syndromes (EDSs) are a group of hereditary disorders affecting collagen and connective tissue. Gynecologic and obstetric complications occur with increased frequency and severity due to these abnormalities. Recent studies suggest that some complications, including endometriosis and premature rupture of the membranes may occur less often than previously thought. In addition, having a known diagnosis allows anticipatory planning, resulting in lower morbidity from hemorrhage and tissue injury. With continued progress in understanding the underlying mechanisms of EDS, more effective treatments can be developed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie Blagowidow
- Harvey Institute for Human Genetics, Greater Baltimore Medical Center, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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Burns GL, Hoedt EC, Walker MM, Talley NJ, Keely S. Physiological mechanisms of unexplained (functional) gastrointestinal disorders. J Physiol 2021; 599:5141-5161. [PMID: 34705270 DOI: 10.1113/jp281620] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs) encompass a range of complex conditions with similar clinical characteristics and no overt pathology. Recent recognition of sub-clinical pathologies in FGIDs, in conjunction with physiological and biochemical abnormalities including increased intestinal permeability, microbial profile alterations, differences in metabolites and extra-intestinal manifestations of disease, call into question the designation of these conditions as 'functional'. This is despite significant heterogeneity in both symptom profile and specifics of reported physiological abnormalities hampering efforts to determine defined mechanisms that drive onset and chronicity of symptoms. Instead, the literature demonstrates these conditions are disorders of homeostatic imbalance, with disruptions in both host and microbial function and metabolism. This imbalance is also associated with extraintestinal abnormalities including psychological comorbidities and fatigue that may be a consequence of gastrointestinal disruption. Given the exploitation of such abnormalities will be crucial for improved therapeutic selection, an enhanced understanding of the relationship between alterations in function of the gastrointestinal tract and the response of the immune system is of interest in identifying mechanisms that drive FGID onset and chronicity. Considerations for future research should include the role of sex hormones in regulating physiological functions and treatment responses in patients, as well as the importance of high-level phenotyping of clinical, immune, microbial and physiological parameters in study cohorts. There is opportunity to examine the functional contribution of the microbiota and associated metabolites as a source of mechanistic insight and targets for therapeutic modulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grace L Burns
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, Australia.,NHMRC Centre for Research Excellence in Digestive Health, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, Australia.,New Lambton Heights, Hunter Medical Research Institute, Newcastle, NSW, Australia
| | - Emily C Hoedt
- NHMRC Centre for Research Excellence in Digestive Health, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, Australia.,New Lambton Heights, Hunter Medical Research Institute, Newcastle, NSW, Australia.,School of Medicine and Public Health, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, Australia
| | - Marjorie M Walker
- NHMRC Centre for Research Excellence in Digestive Health, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, Australia.,New Lambton Heights, Hunter Medical Research Institute, Newcastle, NSW, Australia.,School of Medicine and Public Health, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, Australia
| | - Nicholas J Talley
- NHMRC Centre for Research Excellence in Digestive Health, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, Australia.,New Lambton Heights, Hunter Medical Research Institute, Newcastle, NSW, Australia.,School of Medicine and Public Health, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, Australia
| | - Simon Keely
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, Australia.,NHMRC Centre for Research Excellence in Digestive Health, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, Australia.,New Lambton Heights, Hunter Medical Research Institute, Newcastle, NSW, Australia
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Dhingra R, Bascom R, Thompson E, Francomano CA, Schubart JR. Gastrointestinal medication burden among persons with the Ehlers-Danlos syndromes. Neurogastroenterol Motil 2021; 33:e14077. [PMID: 33393191 DOI: 10.1111/nmo.14077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2020] [Revised: 11/04/2020] [Accepted: 12/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Ehlers-Danlos syndromes (EDSs) are a group of heritable disorders of connective tissue associated with an increased prevalence of both structural and functional GI conditions. METHODS We used 10 years (2005-2014) of administrative claims data comprised of 4294 people with clinician-diagnosed EDS, aged 5-62 years, and compared their frequency of GI drug prescription claims to their age-, sex-, state of residence-, and earliest claim date-matched controls. We categorized the GI medications into the following groups: acid suppressants, anti-emetics, irritable bowel syndrome drugs, and visceral hypersensitivity (VHS) medications. KEY RESULTS Compared to controls, a significantly higher proportion of persons with EDS had prescription claims for at least one GI drug group, as well as for drugs in each of the four GI drug groups included in our study. By age-group, 25.7% children and 45.1% adults with EDS had prescription claims for at least one GI drug group compared with only 7.4% and 21.0% of controls, respectively (p < 0.0001). By gender, 44.0% of women and 25.3% of men with EDS had prescription claims for at least one class of GI drugs compared with 19.2% and 9.6% of controls, respectively (p < 0.0001). CONCLUSIONS AND KEY INFERENCES Predominant medication burden occurs among women with EDS, beginning peri-pubertally for anti-emetics and VHS drugs. High GI medication burden underscores previous evidence that GI dysmotility is common among persons with EDS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Radha Dhingra
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Penn State Health Milton S Hershey Medical Center, Hershey, PA, USA
| | - Rebecca Bascom
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Penn State Health Milton S Hershey Medical Center, Hershey, PA, USA.,Department of Medicine, Penn State Health Milton S Hershey Medical Center, Hershey, PA, USA
| | - Elizabeth Thompson
- Department of Medicine, Penn State Health Milton S Hershey Medical Center, Hershey, PA, USA
| | - Clair A Francomano
- Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Jane R Schubart
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Penn State Health Milton S Hershey Medical Center, Hershey, PA, USA.,Department of Surgery, Penn State Health Milton S Hershey Medical Center, Hershey, PA, USA
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Lam CY, Palsson OS, Whitehead WE, Sperber AD, Tornblom H, Simren M, Aziz I. Rome IV Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders and Health Impairment in Subjects With Hypermobility Spectrum Disorders or Hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome. Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol 2021; 19:277-287.e3. [PMID: 32109633 DOI: 10.1016/j.cgh.2020.02.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2019] [Revised: 01/14/2020] [Accepted: 02/14/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Individuals with hypermobility spectrum disorder or hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (HSD/hEDS) are increasingly encountered by gastroenterologists and pose complex clinical challenges. Uncontrolled studies have found functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs) to be common in patients with HSD/hEDS. Some patients have somatic symptoms (medically unexplained symptoms) that might affect FGIDs. We performed a case-control study to determine the prevalence of and factors associated with Rome IV FGIDs in subjects with HSD/hEDS compared with age- and sex- matched population-based controls. METHODS An online general health survey was completed by 603 individuals with HSD/hEDS in October 2018 (cases) and 603 matched individuals from the population of the United Kingdom (controls) in 2015. The mean participant age was 39 yrs, and 96% were women. The survey included questions about Rome IV FGIDs, non-GI and non-musculoskeletal somatic symptoms (maximum number, 10), quality of life, medical history and healthcare use. The prevalence of FGIDs was compared between cases and controls, with subsequent logistic regression models - adjusting for the number of somatic symptoms - used to determine the associations for FGIDs in HSD/hEDS compared with controls. RESULTS Nearly all subjects (98%) with HSD/hEDS fulfilled symptom-based criteria for 1 or more Rome IV FGIDs, compared with 47% of controls (P < .0001). The gastrointestinal regions most commonly affected by FGIDs in individuals with HSD/hEDS and control subjects were the bowel (90% vs 40% of controls), gastroduodenal (70% vs 13% of controls), esophageal (56% vs 6% of controls), and anorectal (53% vs 9% of controls); P < .0001. A higher proportion of subjects with HSD/hEDS had FGIDs in 2 or more regions (84% vs 15% of controls; P < .0001). Subjects with HSD/hEDS also reported a significantly higher number of non-GI and non-musculoskeletal somatic symptoms (7.1 vs 3.3 in controls), lower quality of life, and greater healthcare use, including abdominal surgeries and medication use (for example, 84% used analgesics compared with 29% of controls). Almost 40% of subjects with HSD/hEDS reported a diagnosis of chronic fatigue syndrome and/or fibromyalgia. Following adjustments for somatic symptoms, the association for FGIDs in subjects with HSD/hEDS was reduced by as much as 4-fold and in some instances was eliminated. CONCLUSIONS In a large case-control study of persons with HSD/hEDS, almost all of the cases met criteria for Rome IV FGIDs, incurred considerable health impairment, and had high healthcare use. Patients with HSD/hEDS frequently have somatic symptoms that should be treated to reduce the high burden of gastrointestinal illness in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ching Y Lam
- Academic Department of Gastroenterology, Sheffield Teaching Hospitals, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Olafur S Palsson
- Center for Functional Gastrointestinal and Motility Disorders, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - William E Whitehead
- Center for Functional Gastrointestinal and Motility Disorders, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Ami D Sperber
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel
| | - Hans Tornblom
- Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical Nutrition, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Magnus Simren
- Center for Functional Gastrointestinal and Motility Disorders, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina; Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical Nutrition, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Imran Aziz
- Academic Department of Gastroenterology, Sheffield Teaching Hospitals, Sheffield, United Kingdom; Department of Infection, Immunity and Cardiovascular Disease, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom.
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10
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Maconi G, Pini A, Pasqualone E, Ardizzone S, Bassotti G. Abdominal Symptoms and Colonic Diverticula in Marfan’s Syndrome: A Clinical and Ultrasonographic Case Control Study. J Clin Med 2020; 9:jcm9103141. [PMID: 32998474 PMCID: PMC7599469 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9103141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2020] [Revised: 09/07/2020] [Accepted: 09/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Marfan’s syndrome (MFS) seems to be frequently associated with colonic diverticulosis, but the prevalence of diverticula and symptoms evocative of diverticular disease in this population are still unknown. Methods: This prospective case control study included 90 consecutive patients with MFS, 90 unselected controls, and 90 asymptomatic subjects. The clinical characteristics, including lower gastrointestinal symptoms, and ultrasonographic features of the bowel, including diverticula and thickening of the muscularis propria of the sigmoid colon, were investigated. In addition, the genotype of MFS patients was assessed. The characteristics of patients and controls were compared using parametric tests. Results: Complaints of abdominal symptoms were made by 23 (25.6%) patients with MFS and 48 (53%) control subjects (p < 0.01). Constipation and bloating were reported less frequently by MFS patients than controls (constipation: 13.3% vs. 26.6%, p = 0.039; bloating: 3.3% vs. 41.1%, p < 0.0001), while other symptoms were not significantly different. Sigmoid diverticulosis was detected in 12 (12.3%) patients with MFS, as well as in 3 (3.3%) asymptomatic healthy subjects and 4 (4.4%) random controls (p = 0.0310). The genetic variants of MFS were not correlated with symptoms or diverticula. Conclusion: Patients with MFS have a greater prevalence of diverticula, although less abdominal symptoms, compared to the general population. Symptoms and diverticula in MFS are not correlated with any genetic variant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Maconi
- Gastroenterology Unit, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco, University of Milan, 20157 Milan, Italy; (E.P.); (S.A.)
- Correspondence: Giovanni ; Tel.: +39-023-904-3164
| | - Alessandro Pini
- Cardiovascular-Genetic Center, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, 20097 San Donato Milanese, Italy;
| | - Elia Pasqualone
- Gastroenterology Unit, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco, University of Milan, 20157 Milan, Italy; (E.P.); (S.A.)
| | - Sandro Ardizzone
- Gastroenterology Unit, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco, University of Milan, 20157 Milan, Italy; (E.P.); (S.A.)
| | - Gabrio Bassotti
- Gastroenterology & Hepatology Section, Department of Medicine, University of Perugia Medical School, 06122 Perugia, Italy;
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11
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Malfait F, Castori M, Francomano CA, Giunta C, Kosho T, Byers PH. The Ehlers-Danlos syndromes. Nat Rev Dis Primers 2020; 6:64. [PMID: 32732924 DOI: 10.1038/s41572-020-0194-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 122] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The Ehlers-Danlos syndromes (EDS) are a heterogeneous group of hereditary disorders of connective tissue, with common features including joint hypermobility, soft and hyperextensible skin, abnormal wound healing and easy bruising. Fourteen different types of EDS are recognized, of which the molecular cause is known for 13 types. These types are caused by variants in 20 different genes, the majority of which encode the fibrillar collagen types I, III and V, modifying or processing enzymes for those proteins, and enzymes that can modify glycosaminoglycan chains of proteoglycans. For the hypermobile type of EDS, the molecular underpinnings remain unknown. As connective tissue is ubiquitously distributed throughout the body, manifestations of the different types of EDS are present, to varying degrees, in virtually every organ system. This can make these disorders particularly challenging to diagnose and manage. Management consists of a care team responsible for surveillance of major and organ-specific complications (for example, arterial aneurysm and dissection), integrated physical medicine and rehabilitation. No specific medical or genetic therapies are available for any type of EDS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fransiska Malfait
- Center for Medical Genetics, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Marco Castori
- Division of Medical Genetics, Fondazione IRCCS-Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, San Giovanni Rotondo, Foggia, Italy
| | - Clair A Francomano
- Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Cecilia Giunta
- Connective Tissue Unit, Division of Metabolism and Children's Research Centre, University Children's Hospital, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Tomoki Kosho
- Department of Medical Genetics, Shinshu University School of Medicine, Matsumoto, Japan
| | - Peter H Byers
- Department of Pathology and Division of Medical Genetics, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
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Leganger J, Fonnes S, Kulas Søborg ML, Rosenberg J, Burcharth J. The most common comorbidities in patients with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome: a 15-year nationwide population-based cohort study. Disabil Rehabil 2020; 44:189-193. [PMID: 32412854 DOI: 10.1080/09638288.2020.1761890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Objectives: Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS) constitutes a group of connective tissue diseases with variable organ dysfunction. We aimed to examine the comorbidity burden in patients with EDS.Methods: A nationwide population-based cohort study linking data from Danish registers from the year 2000-2014. The EDS cohort was identified using the International Classification of Diseases version 10 (ICD-10) EDS code. The control cohort was formed from the Danish general population by randomly matching the EDS cohort in a ratio of 1:25 by sex and date of birth. Hospital contacts were used to identify the most frequently occurring ICD-10 codes. We investigated the frequencies of the disease categories and unique ICD-10 codes and compared these between the cohorts.Results: The EDS cohort included 1,319 patients and the control cohort 46,700 patients. All disease categories and ICD-10 codes were significantly more frequent within the EDS cohort, especially those related to common manifestations of EDS. Other comorbidities such as asthma, pneumonia, gastrointestinal functional disorders, and hernias were also significantly more common in the EDS cohort.Conclusions: The most common comorbidities in Danish patients with EDS were gastrointestinal functional disorders, hernias, asthma, pneumonia, and osteoporosis. The causality between these comorbidities and EDS should be investigated further.Implications for RehabilitationEhlers-Danlos syndrome constitutes a group of connective tissue diseases causing a variable range of organ dysfunction.The comorbidity burden for patients with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome was unexplored previously.This study showed that the most common comorbidities in Danish patients with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome are gastrointestinal functional disorders, hernias, asthma, pneumonia, and osteoporosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Leganger
- Center for Perioperative Optimization, Department of Surgery, Herlev Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Siv Fonnes
- Center for Perioperative Optimization, Department of Surgery, Herlev Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - M L Kulas Søborg
- Center for Perioperative Optimization, Department of Surgery, Herlev Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jacob Rosenberg
- Center for Perioperative Optimization, Department of Surgery, Herlev Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jakob Burcharth
- Center for Perioperative Optimization, Department of Surgery, Herlev Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
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