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van Dijk FS, Ghali N, Chandratheva A. Ehlers-Danlos syndromes: importance of defining the type. Pract Neurol 2024; 24:90-97. [PMID: 38160052 DOI: 10.1136/pn-2023-003703] [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] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Ehlers-Danlos syndromes (EDS) is an umbrella term describing 14 types, of which 13 are rare and monogenic, with overlapping features of joint hypermobility, skin, and vascular fragility, and generalised connective tissue friability. Hypermobile EDS currently has no identified genetic cause. Most of the rare monogenic EDS types can have neurological features, which are often part of major or minor diagnostic criteria for each type. This review aims to highlight the neurological features and other key characteristics of these EDS types. This should improve recognition of these features, enabling more timely consideration and confirmation or exclusion through genetic testing. In practice, many healthcare professionals still refer to patients as having 'EDS'. However, the different EDS types have distinct clinical features as well as different underlying genetic causes and pathogenic mechanisms, and each requires bespoke management and surveillance. Defining the EDS type is therefore crucial, as EDS is not in itself a diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fleur S van Dijk
- National EDS Service London, London North West University Healthcare NHS Trust, Harrow, London, UK
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Section of Genetics and Genomics, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Neeti Ghali
- National EDS Service London, London North West University Healthcare NHS Trust, Harrow, London, UK
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Section of Genetics and Genomics, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Arvind Chandratheva
- National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
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2
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Patel J, Neville C, Kumar R, Grey-Davies E, Hutt R, van Dijk FS, Chan LY, Walter E. Familial hepatic rupture in vascular Ehlers-Danlos syndrome in pregnancy with atypical thromboses. JRSM Open 2023; 14:20542704231215970. [PMID: 38106362 PMCID: PMC10725090 DOI: 10.1177/20542704231215970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2023] Open
Abstract
This case highlights the importance of genetic testing over fibroblast testing and presents the first published thromboelastometry data in vascular Ehlers-Danlos syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesal Patel
- Department of Intensive Care, Royal Surrey County Hospital, Surrey, UK
| | - Cai Neville
- Department of Rheumatology, Royal Surrey County Hospital, Surrey, UK
| | - Raj Kumar
- Department of General Surgery, Royal Surrey County Hospital, Surrey, UK
| | | | - Renata Hutt
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Royal Surrey County Hospital, Surrey, UK
| | - Fleur S. van Dijk
- National EDS Service, London North West University NHS Trust, Harrow, UK
| | - Li Yuan Chan
- Department of Haematology, Royal Surrey County Hospital, Surrey, UK
| | - Edward Walter
- Department of Intensive Care, Royal Surrey County Hospital, Surrey, UK
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3
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Doolan BJ, Lavallee M, Hausser I, Pope FM, Seneviratne SL, Winship IM, Burrows NP. Dermatologic manifestations and diagnostic assessments of the Ehlers-Danlos syndromes: A clinical review. J Am Acad Dermatol 2023; 89:551-559. [PMID: 36764582 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaad.2023.01.034] [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: 09/27/2022] [Revised: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Ehlers-Danlos syndromes (EDSs) comprise a group of connective tissue disorders that manifest with skin hyperextensibility, easy bruising, joint hypermobility and fragility of skin, soft tissues, and some organs. A correct assessment of cutaneous features along with the use of adjunct technologies can improve diagnostic accuracy. OBJECTIVES To systematically review the cutaneous features and adjunct investigations of EDS. METHODS A search of PubMed and Web of Science for EDS-related cutaneous features and additional investigations was undertaken from publication of the 2017 International Classification of EDS until January 15, 2022. RESULTS One-hundred-and-forty studies involved 839 patients with EDS. The EDS female-to-male ratio was 1.36:1 (P < .001). A high prevalence of skin hyperextensibility, bruising, and soft skin were noted. Most patients with vascular Ehlers-Danlos syndrome showed venous visibility, skin fragility, and acrogeria. Classical EDS showed subcutaneous spheroids and molluscoid pseudotumours. In patients that underwent skin biopsies, only 30.3% and 71.4% showed features suggestive of EDS using light microscopy and transmission electron microscopy, respectively. LIMITATIONS Retrospective study and small cases numbers for some EDS-subtypes. CONCLUSIONS An accurate clinical diagnosis increases the chances of a molecular diagnosis, particularly for rarer EDS subtypes, whilst decreasing the need for genetic testing where there is a low clinical suspicion for a monogenic EDS-subtype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brent J Doolan
- St John's Institute of Dermatology, School of Basic and Medical Biosciences, King's College London, London, UK; St John's Institute of Dermatology, Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK.
| | - Mark Lavallee
- Department of Orthopedics, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center of Central PA, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Ingrid Hausser
- Institute of Pathology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - F Michael Pope
- Department of Dermatology, Chelsea and Westminster Hospital NHS Foundation Trust (West Middlesex University Hospital), London, UK
| | - Suranjith L Seneviratne
- Institute of Immunity and Transplantation, Royal Free Hospital and University College London, London, UK; Nawaloka Hospital Research and Education Foundation, Nawaloka Hospitals, Colombo, Sri Lanka
| | - Ingrid M Winship
- Department of Genetic Medicine, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Department of Medicine, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Nigel P Burrows
- Department of Dermatology, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK
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4
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Angwin C, Zschocke J, Kammin T, Björck E, Bowen J, Brady AF, Burns H, Cummings C, Gardner R, Ghali N, Gröbner R, Harris J, Higgins M, Johnson D, Lepperdinger U, Milnes D, Pope FM, Sehra R, Kapferer-Seebacher I, Sobey G, Van Dijk FS. Non-oral manifestations in adults with a clinical and molecularly confirmed diagnosis of periodontal Ehlers-Danlos syndrome. Front Genet 2023; 14:1136339. [PMID: 37323685 PMCID: PMC10264792 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2023.1136339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Periodontal Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (pEDS) is a rare autosomal dominant type of EDS characterised by severe early-onset periodontitis, lack of attached gingiva, pretibial plaques, joint hypermobility and skin hyperextensibility as per the 2017 International EDS Classification. In 2016, deleterious pathogenic heterozygous variants were identified in C1R and C1S, which encode components of the complement system. Materials and Methods: Individuals with a clinical suspicion of pEDS were clinically and molecularly assessed through the National EDS Service in London and Sheffield and in genetic services in Austria, Sweden and Australia. Transmission electron microscopy and fibroblast studies were performed in a small subset of patients. Results: A total of 21 adults from 12 families were clinically and molecularly diagnosed with pEDS, with C1R variants in all families. The age at molecular diagnosis ranged from 21-73 years (mean 45 years), male: female ratio 5:16. Features of easy bruising (90%), pretibial plaques (81%), skin fragility (71%), joint hypermobility (24%) and vocal changes (38%) were identified as well as leukodystrophy in 89% of those imaged. Discussion: This cohort highlights the clinical features of pEDS in adults and contributes several important additional clinical features as well as novel deleterious variants to current knowledge. Hypothetical pathogenic mechanisms which may help to progress understanding and management of pEDS are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- C. Angwin
- National EDS Service, London North West University Healthcare NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Section of Genetics and Genomics, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - J. Zschocke
- Institute of Human Genetics, Medical University Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - T. Kammin
- National EDS Diagnostic Service, Sheffield Children’s NHS Foundation Trust, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - E. Björck
- Clinical Genetics, Karolinska University Hospital, Solna, Sweden
| | - J. Bowen
- National EDS Diagnostic Service, Sheffield Children’s NHS Foundation Trust, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - A. F. Brady
- National EDS Service, London North West University Healthcare NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Section of Genetics and Genomics, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - H. Burns
- Department Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Children’s Health QLD, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
- School of Medicine, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - C. Cummings
- National EDS Service, London North West University Healthcare NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - R. Gardner
- Clinical Genetics, Genetic Health Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - N. Ghali
- National EDS Service, London North West University Healthcare NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Section of Genetics and Genomics, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - R. Gröbner
- Institute of Human Genetics, Medical University Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - J. Harris
- National EDS Service, London North West University Healthcare NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - M. Higgins
- Clinical Genetics, Genetic Health Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - D. Johnson
- National EDS Diagnostic Service, Sheffield Children’s NHS Foundation Trust, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - U. Lepperdinger
- Department of Operative and Restorative Dentistry, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - D. Milnes
- Clinical Genetics, Genetic Health Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - F. M. Pope
- National EDS Service, London North West University Healthcare NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Dermatology, Chelsea and Westminster Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - R. Sehra
- National EDS Service, London North West University Healthcare NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - I. Kapferer-Seebacher
- Department of Operative and Restorative Dentistry, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - G. Sobey
- National EDS Diagnostic Service, Sheffield Children’s NHS Foundation Trust, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - F. S. Van Dijk
- National EDS Service, London North West University Healthcare NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Section of Genetics and Genomics, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
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5
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Huang S, Strange A, Maeva A, Siddiqui S, Bastien P, Aguayo S, Vaez M, Montagu-Pollock H, Ghibaudo M, Potter A, Pageon H, Bozec L. Quantitative nanohistology of aging dermal collagen. FRONTIERS IN AGING 2023; 4:1178566. [PMID: 37323537 PMCID: PMC10266548 DOI: 10.3389/fragi.2023.1178566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
The skin is the largest organ in the body and is essential for protecting us from environmental stressors such as UV radiation, pollution, and pathogens. As we age, our skin undergoes complex changes that can affect its function, appearance, and health. These changes result from intrinsic (chronological) and extrinsic (environmental) factors that can cause damage to the skin's cells and extracellular matrix. As higher-resolution microscopical techniques, such as Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM), are being deployed to support histology, it is possible to explore the biophysical properties of the dermal scaffold's constituents, such as the collagen network. In this study, we demonstrate the use of our AFM-based quantitative nanohistology, performed directly on unfixed cryosections of 30 donors (female, Caucasian), to differentiate between dermal collagen from different age groups and anatomical sites. The initial 420 (10 × 10 μm2) Atomic Force Microscopy images were segmented into 42,000 (1 × 1 μm2) images before being classified according to four pre-defined empirical collagen structural biomarkers to quantify the structural heterogeneity of the dermal collagen. These markers include interfibrillar gap formation, undefined collagen structure, and registered or unregistered dense collagen fibrillar network with evident D-banding. The structural analysis was also complemented by extensive nanoindentation (∼1,000 curves) performed on individual fibrils from each section, yielding 30,000 indentation curves for this study. Principal Component Analysis was used to reduce the complexity of high-dimensional datasets. The % prevalence of the empirical collagen structural biomarkers between the papillary and reticular dermis for each section proves determinant in differentiating between the donors as a function of their age or the anatomical site (cheek or breast). A case of abnormal biological aging validated our markers and nanohistology approach. This case also highlighted the difference between chronological and biological aging regarding dermal collagen phenotyping. However, quantifying the impact of chronic and pathological conditions on the structure and function of collagen at the sub-micron level remains challenging and lengthy. By employing tools such as the Atomic Force Microscope as presented here, it is possible to start evaluating the complexity of the dermal matrix at the nanoscale and start identifying relevant collagen morphology which could be used toward histopathology standards.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophia Huang
- Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Adam Strange
- Eastman Dental Institute, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Anna Maeva
- Eastman Dental Institute, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Samera Siddiqui
- Eastman Dental Institute, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Sebastian Aguayo
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Dentistry, Pontificia Universidad Catolica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
- Schools of Engineering, Medicine, and Biological Sciences, Institute for Biological and Medical Engineering, Pontificia Universidad Católica de, Santiago, Chile
| | - Mina Vaez
- Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | | | | | - Anne Potter
- L’Oréal Research and Innovation, Aulnay-sous-Bois, France
| | - Herve Pageon
- L’Oréal Research and Innovation, Aulnay-sous-Bois, France
| | - Laurent Bozec
- Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Eastman Dental Institute, University College London, London, United Kingdom
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Manhas J, Lohani LR, Seethy A, Kumar U, Gamanagatti S, Sen S. Case report: Characterization of a rare pathogenic variant associated with loss of COL3A1 expression in vascular Ehlers Danlos syndrome. Front Cardiovasc Med 2022; 9:939013. [PMID: 36304539 PMCID: PMC9595653 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2022.939013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
The vascular subtype of Ehlers Danlos Syndrome (vEDS) is a rare connective tissue disorder characterized by spontaneous arterial, bowel or organ rupture. The diagnosis of vEDS is established in a proband by identification of a heterozygous pathogenic variant in the alpha-1 gene of type III collagen (COL3A1) by molecular analysis. In this report, we present a case of vEDS with life threatening, spontaneous arterial dissections in association with an uncharacterized rare variant of COL3A1, exon19:c.1340G > A. Primary culture of patient skin fibroblasts followed by immunofluorescence revealed a complete absence of COL3A1 protein expression as well as altered morphology. Electron microscopy of the cultured fibroblasts showed abnormal vacuoles in the cytoplasm suggestive of a secretory defect. In this study, we have performed functional characterization of the COL3A1 exon19:c.1340G > A variant for the first time and this may now be classified as likely pathogenic in vEDS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janvie Manhas
- Department of Biochemistry, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Lov Raj Lohani
- Department of Rheumatology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Ashikh Seethy
- Department of Biochemistry, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Uma Kumar
- Department of Rheumatology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India,*Correspondence: Uma Kumar,
| | - Shivanand Gamanagatti
- Department of Radiodiagnosis, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Sudip Sen
- Department of Biochemistry, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
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7
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Schirwani S, van Dijk FS, Cauldwell M, Harrison RE, Kraus A, Brennan P, Ghali N, Lahiri N, Johnson D, Sobey G. Amniotic band sequence in vascular Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS): Experience of the EDS National Diagnostic Services in the UK. Eur J Med Genet 2022; 65:104592. [PMID: 35964932 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmg.2022.104592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2021] [Revised: 06/26/2022] [Accepted: 08/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
The association between vascular Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (vEDS) and amniotic band sequence (ABS) has been previously reported in the literature, mostly in single patient case reports. Here, we aim to extend the current knowledge of this association through a case series of five unrelated individuals with ABS in association with molecularly confirmed vEDS, in addition to undertaking a comprehensive literature review. All the individuals were recruited through the EDS national diagnostic service in the UK following appropriate history, physical examination and genetic investigations. Clinical presentation ranged from a single constriction ring to complex craniofacial clefts to limb reduction deformities, reflecting the spectrum of ABS presentation. vEDS was inherited paternally (n = 2), maternally (n = 2) and de novo (n = 1). Previously, maternal vEDS was considered the risk factor for ABS, but our findings suggest that it may be the disease status of the fetus which poses the main risk. It is established that amniotic membrane is derived from fetal tissue, which supports our conclusions. Our observations suggest the increased risk of ABS in fetuses with vEDS. Therefore, exploring family history and features that may suggest vEDS diagnosis in patients with ABS might be useful. We also recommend that a collaborative international study would be useful to help gain a better insight into this association.
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Affiliation(s)
- Schaida Schirwani
- EDS National Diagnostic Service, Sheffield Children's NHS Foundation Trust, Sheffield, UK; Sheffield Clinical Genetics Service, Sheffield Children's NHS Foundation Trust, Sheffield, UK.
| | - Fleur S van Dijk
- National EDS Service London, London North West Healthcare NHS Trust, Harrow, London, UK
| | - Matthew Cauldwell
- Department of Obstetrics, St George's University Hospital, London, UK
| | - Rachel E Harrison
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, Nottingham, UK
| | - Alison Kraus
- Yorkshire Regional Genetic Service, Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Leeds, UK
| | - Paul Brennan
- Northern Genetics Service, Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Neeti Ghali
- National EDS Service London, London North West Healthcare NHS Trust, Harrow, London, UK
| | - Nayana Lahiri
- Department Clinical Genetics, St George's University Hospital & St. George's University, London, UK
| | - Diana Johnson
- EDS National Diagnostic Service, Sheffield Children's NHS Foundation Trust, Sheffield, UK; Sheffield Clinical Genetics Service, Sheffield Children's NHS Foundation Trust, Sheffield, UK
| | - Glenda Sobey
- EDS National Diagnostic Service, Sheffield Children's NHS Foundation Trust, Sheffield, UK; Sheffield Clinical Genetics Service, Sheffield Children's NHS Foundation Trust, Sheffield, UK
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8
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Stembridge N, Doolan BJ, Lavallee ME, Hausser I, Pope FM, Seneviratne SL, Winship IM, Burrows NP. The role of cutaneous manifestations in the diagnosis of the Ehlers-Danlos syndromes. SKIN HEALTH AND DISEASE 2022; 3:e140. [PMID: 36751332 PMCID: PMC9892481 DOI: 10.1002/ski2.140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2022] [Revised: 06/03/2022] [Accepted: 06/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
The Ehlers-Danlos syndromes (EDS) comprise a group of inherited connective tissue disorders presenting with features of skin hyperextensibility, joint hypermobility, abnormal scarring and fragility of skin, blood vessels and some organs. The disease is generally diagnosed through the cluster of clinical features, though the addition of genetic analysis is the gold standard for diagnosis of most subtypes. All subtypes display skin manifestations, which are essential to the accurate clinical diagnosis of the condition. Furthermore, cutaneous features can be the first and/or only presenting feature in some cases of EDS and thus understanding these signs is vital for diagnosis. This review focuses on particular cutaneous features of each EDS subtype and their clinical importance. Provision of a specific diagnosis is important for management, prognosis and genetic counselling, often for family members beyond the individual.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natasha Stembridge
- Department of DermatologyCambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation TrustCambridgeUK
| | - Brent J. Doolan
- St John's Institute of DermatologySchool of Basic and Medical BiosciencesKing's College LondonLondonUK,Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation TrustLondonUK
| | - Mark E. Lavallee
- Department of OrthopedicsUniversity of Pittsburgh Medical Center of Central PAPittsburghPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Ingrid Hausser
- Institute of PathologyHeidelberg University HospitalHeidelbergGermany
| | - F. Michael Pope
- Department of DermatologyChelsea and Westminster Hospital NHS Foundation Trust (West Middlesex University Hospital)LondonUK
| | - Suranjith L. Seneviratne
- Institute of Immunity and TransplantationRoyal Free Hospital and University College LondonLondonUK,Nawaloka Hospital Research and Education FoundationNawaloka HospitalsColomboSri Lanka
| | - Ingrid M. Winship
- Department of Genetic MedicineThe Royal Melbourne HospitalMelbourneVictoriaAustralia,Department of MedicineThe University of MelbourneMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
| | - Nigel P. Burrows
- Department of DermatologyCambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation TrustCambridgeUK
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Kiener S, Apostolopoulos N, Schissler J, Hass PK, Leuthard F, Jagannathan V, Schuppisser C, Soto S, Welle M, Mayer U, Leeb T, Fischer NM, Kaessmeyer S. Independent COL5A1 Variants in Cats with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome. Genes (Basel) 2022; 13:genes13050797. [PMID: 35627182 PMCID: PMC9140822 DOI: 10.3390/genes13050797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2022] [Revised: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
We investigated four cats with similar clinical skin-related signs strongly suggestive of Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS). Cases no. 1 and 4 were unrelated and the remaining two cases, no. 2 and 3, were reportedly siblings. Histopathological changes were characterized by severely altered dermal collagen fibers. Transmission electron microscopy in one case demonstrated abnormalities in the collagen fibril organization and structure. The genomes of the two unrelated affected cats and one of the affected siblings were sequenced and individually compared to 54 feline control genomes. We searched for private protein changing variants in known human EDS candidate genes and identified three independent heterozygous COL5A1 variants. COL5A1 is a well-characterized candidate gene for classical EDS. It encodes the proα1 chain of type V collagen, which is needed for correct collagen fibril formation and the integrity of the skin. The identified variants in COL5A1 are c.112_118+15del or r.spl?, c.3514A>T or p.(Lys1172*), and c.3066del or p.(Gly1023Valfs*50) for cases no. 1, 2&3, and 4, respectively. They presumably all lead to nonsense-mediated mRNA decay, which results in haploinsufficiency of COL5A1 and causes the alterations of the connective tissue. The whole genome sequencing approach used in this study enables a refinement of the diagnosis for the affected cats as classical EDS. It further illustrates the potential of such experiments as a precision medicine approach in animals with inherited diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Kiener
- Institute of Genetics, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, 3001 Bern, Switzerland; (S.K.); (F.L.); (V.J.)
- Dermfocus, University of Bern, 3001 Bern, Switzerland; (S.S.); (M.W.); (S.K.)
| | - Neoklis Apostolopoulos
- Anicura Kleintierspezialisten Augsburg, 86157 Augsburg, Germany; (N.A.); (U.M.)
- Department of Medical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin, 2015 Linden Drive, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Jennifer Schissler
- Department of Clinical Sciences, James L. Voss Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Fort Collins, CO 80525, USA;
| | - Pascal-Kolja Hass
- Division of Veterinary Anatomy, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, 3001 Bern, Switzerland;
| | - Fabienne Leuthard
- Institute of Genetics, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, 3001 Bern, Switzerland; (S.K.); (F.L.); (V.J.)
- Dermfocus, University of Bern, 3001 Bern, Switzerland; (S.S.); (M.W.); (S.K.)
| | - Vidhya Jagannathan
- Institute of Genetics, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, 3001 Bern, Switzerland; (S.K.); (F.L.); (V.J.)
| | | | - Sara Soto
- Dermfocus, University of Bern, 3001 Bern, Switzerland; (S.S.); (M.W.); (S.K.)
- Institute of Animal Pathology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, 3001 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Monika Welle
- Dermfocus, University of Bern, 3001 Bern, Switzerland; (S.S.); (M.W.); (S.K.)
- Institute of Animal Pathology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, 3001 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Ursula Mayer
- Anicura Kleintierspezialisten Augsburg, 86157 Augsburg, Germany; (N.A.); (U.M.)
| | - Tosso Leeb
- Institute of Genetics, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, 3001 Bern, Switzerland; (S.K.); (F.L.); (V.J.)
- Dermfocus, University of Bern, 3001 Bern, Switzerland; (S.S.); (M.W.); (S.K.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +41-31-684-2326
| | - Nina M. Fischer
- Dermatology Unit, Clinic for Small Animal Internal Medicine, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland;
| | - Sabine Kaessmeyer
- Dermfocus, University of Bern, 3001 Bern, Switzerland; (S.S.); (M.W.); (S.K.)
- Division of Veterinary Anatomy, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, 3001 Bern, Switzerland;
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10
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Bailleux S, Collins P, Nikkels AF. The Relevance of Skin Biopsies in General Internal Medicine: Facts and Myths. Dermatol Ther (Heidelb) 2022; 12:1103-1119. [PMID: 35430724 PMCID: PMC9110592 DOI: 10.1007/s13555-022-00717-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Non-dermatology medical specialties may refer patients for skin biopsies, searching for a particular diagnosis. However, the diagnostic impact of the skin biopsy is not clearly established. This article aims to assess the indications for, and evaluate the clinical relevance of, skin biopsies in non-dermatology medical specialties. Methods A questionnaire was sent to 23 non-dermatology specialty departments in a university medical center, requesting a list of indications for skin biopsies, as well as to 10 staff dermatologists to collect the indications of skin biopsies requested by non-dermatology specialties. Once the indications were collected, a literature search was performed to evaluate their clinical value and relevance. Results Eleven non-dermatology specialties provided a list of skin biopsy indications, to which staff dermatologists added seven more indications. A literature search revealed evidence-based medicine data for six diseases, that is, amyloidosis, peripheral autonomic neuropathy, Sneddon’s syndrome, intravascular lymphoma, sarcoidosis, and chronic graft-versus-host disease. Results were questionable concerning infectious endocarditis, acute graft-versus-host-disease, and the lupus band test. Skin biopsy were not evidenced as useful for the diagnosis of calciphylaxis, systemic scleroderma, Behçet’s disease, or hypermobile Ehlers–Danlos syndrome. For the diagnosis of Alport’s syndrome, pseudoxanthoma elasticum, and vascular Ehlers–Danlos syndrome, skin biopsy is currently outperformed by genetic analyses. For diagnoses such as Henoch–Schönlein purpura and Sjögren’s syndrome, skin biopsy represents an additional item among other diagnostic criteria. Conclusion The usefulness of skin biopsy as requested by non-dermatology specialties is only evidenced for amyloidosis, peripheral autonomic neuropathy, Sneddon’s syndrome, intravascular lymphoma, sarcoidosis, chronic graft-versus-host-disease, Henoch–Schönlein purpura, and Sjögren’s syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie Bailleux
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Centre, CHU du Sart Tilman, University of Liège, 4000, Liège, Belgium
| | - Patrick Collins
- Department of Dermatopathology, University Hospital Centre, CHU du Sart Tilman, Liège, Belgium
| | - Arjen F Nikkels
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Centre, CHU du Sart Tilman, University of Liège, 4000, Liège, Belgium.
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11
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Redman MG, Wagner BE, Cadden S, Baker D, Bowen JM, Johnson D, Sobey G, Balasubramanian M. Rough endoplasmic reticulum expansion: a consistent finding in a patient cohort with vascular Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome and Osteogenesis Imperfecta. Ultrastruct Pathol 2021; 45:414-420. [PMID: 34538206 DOI: 10.1080/01913123.2021.1979703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Vascular Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (vEDS) and Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI) are two forms of connective tissue disorders. Previously, transmission electron microscopy of skin biopsies was routinely performed on all patients who were clinically suspected to have vEDS. At present, molecular genetics using genomic DNA extracted from a blood sample is the first line investigation for these patients. However, when variants of uncertain clinical significance are identified on genetic testing and individuals do not have the classical features of OI or vEDS, additional phenotypic information obtained from a skin biopsy can be valuable for contributing to the evidence for re-classifying pathogenicity of variants.We present a cohort of six patients with molecularly confirmed vEDS and one patient with a severe form of OI, who each had expanded (or dilated), protein-filled, rough endoplasmic reticulum identified on transmission electron microscopy. The patients were identified through retrospective screening of medical records, and biopsies were taken between 1999-2016. We discuss the potential role for assessing rough endoplasmic reticulum expansion as a useful tool to allow further phenotyping of these individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melody G Redman
- Yorkshire Regional Genetics Service, Chapel Allerton Hospital, Leeds, UK
| | - Bart E Wagner
- Histopathology Department, Royal Hallamshire Hospital, Sheffield, UK
| | - Sophie Cadden
- Sheffield Diagnostic Genetics Service, Sheffield Children's Hospital, Sheffield, UK
| | - Duncan Baker
- Sheffield Diagnostic Genetics Service, Sheffield Children's Hospital, Sheffield, UK
| | - Jessica M Bowen
- Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome National Diagnostic Service, Sheffield Children's NHS Foundation Trust, Sheffield, UK.,Sheffield Clinical Genetics Service, Sheffield Children's NHS Foundation Trust, Sheffield, UK
| | - Diana Johnson
- Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome National Diagnostic Service, Sheffield Children's NHS Foundation Trust, Sheffield, UK.,Sheffield Clinical Genetics Service, Sheffield Children's NHS Foundation Trust, Sheffield, UK
| | - Glenda Sobey
- Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome National Diagnostic Service, Sheffield Children's NHS Foundation Trust, Sheffield, UK.,Sheffield Clinical Genetics Service, Sheffield Children's NHS Foundation Trust, Sheffield, UK
| | - Meena Balasubramanian
- Sheffield Clinical Genetics Service, Sheffield Children's NHS Foundation Trust, Sheffield, UK.,Department of Oncology & Metabolism, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
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12
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Caliogna L, Guerrieri V, Annunziata S, Bina V, Brancato AM, Castelli A, Jannelli E, Ivone A, Grassi FA, Mosconi M, Pasta G. Biomarkers for Ehlers-Danlos Syndromes: There Is a Role? Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms221810149. [PMID: 34576312 PMCID: PMC8469247 DOI: 10.3390/ijms221810149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2021] [Revised: 09/16/2021] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Ehlers-Danlos syndromes (EDS) are an inherited heterogeneous group of connective tissue disorders characterized by an abnormal collagen synthesis affecting skin, ligaments, joints, blood vessels, and other organs. It is one of the oldest known causes of bruising and bleeding, and it was described first by Hippocrates in 400 BC. In the last years, multiple gene variants involved in the pathogenesis of specific EDS subtypes have been identified; moreover, new clinical diagnostic criteria have been established. New classification models have also been studied in order to differentiate overlapping conditions. Moreover, EDS shares many characteristics with other similar disorders. Although distinguishing between these seemingly identical conditions is difficult, it is essential in ensuring proper patient care. Currently, there are many genetic and molecular studies underway to clarify the etiology of some variants of EDS. However, the genetic basis of the hypermobile type of EDS (hEDS) is still unknown. In this review, we focused on the study of two of the most common forms of EDS—classic and hypermobile—by trying to identify possible biomarkers that could be of great help to confirm patients’ diagnosis and their follow up.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Caliogna
- Orthopedic and Traumatology Clinic, IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo Foundation, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (L.C.); (V.G.); (A.M.B.); (A.C.); (E.J.); (A.I.); (F.A.G.); (M.M.); (G.P.)
| | - Viviana Guerrieri
- Orthopedic and Traumatology Clinic, IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo Foundation, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (L.C.); (V.G.); (A.M.B.); (A.C.); (E.J.); (A.I.); (F.A.G.); (M.M.); (G.P.)
| | - Salvatore Annunziata
- Orthopedic and Traumatology Clinic, IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo Foundation, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (L.C.); (V.G.); (A.M.B.); (A.C.); (E.J.); (A.I.); (F.A.G.); (M.M.); (G.P.)
- Correspondence: ; Fax: +39-0382-502806
| | - Valentina Bina
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy;
| | - Alice Maria Brancato
- Orthopedic and Traumatology Clinic, IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo Foundation, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (L.C.); (V.G.); (A.M.B.); (A.C.); (E.J.); (A.I.); (F.A.G.); (M.M.); (G.P.)
| | - Alberto Castelli
- Orthopedic and Traumatology Clinic, IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo Foundation, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (L.C.); (V.G.); (A.M.B.); (A.C.); (E.J.); (A.I.); (F.A.G.); (M.M.); (G.P.)
| | - Eugenio Jannelli
- Orthopedic and Traumatology Clinic, IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo Foundation, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (L.C.); (V.G.); (A.M.B.); (A.C.); (E.J.); (A.I.); (F.A.G.); (M.M.); (G.P.)
| | - Alessandro Ivone
- Orthopedic and Traumatology Clinic, IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo Foundation, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (L.C.); (V.G.); (A.M.B.); (A.C.); (E.J.); (A.I.); (F.A.G.); (M.M.); (G.P.)
| | - Federico Alberto Grassi
- Orthopedic and Traumatology Clinic, IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo Foundation, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (L.C.); (V.G.); (A.M.B.); (A.C.); (E.J.); (A.I.); (F.A.G.); (M.M.); (G.P.)
| | - Mario Mosconi
- Orthopedic and Traumatology Clinic, IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo Foundation, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (L.C.); (V.G.); (A.M.B.); (A.C.); (E.J.); (A.I.); (F.A.G.); (M.M.); (G.P.)
| | - Gianluigi Pasta
- Orthopedic and Traumatology Clinic, IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo Foundation, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (L.C.); (V.G.); (A.M.B.); (A.C.); (E.J.); (A.I.); (F.A.G.); (M.M.); (G.P.)
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13
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Ruscitti F, Trevisan L, Rosti G, Gotta F, Cianflone A, Geroldi A, Origone P, Pichiecchio A, Viglio S, Iascone M, Mandich P. A novel mutation in COL3A1 associates to vascular Ehlers-Danlos syndrome with predominant musculoskeletal involvement. Mol Genet Genomic Med 2021; 9:e1753. [PMID: 34318601 PMCID: PMC8457703 DOI: 10.1002/mgg3.1753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2020] [Revised: 04/15/2021] [Accepted: 07/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Vascular Ehlers–Danlos syndrome (vEDS) is a heritable connective tissue disorder caused by defects in the type III collagen protein. It is generally considered the most severe form of Ehlers–Danlos syndrome (EDS) due to an increased risk of spontaneous artery or organ rupture. vEDS has an extremely heterogeneous presentation and muscle rupture is considered a minor diagnostic criterium. Methods A patient with a long history of inconclusive examinations and investigations was referred to our unit. The clinical picture was mainly characterized by muscle ruptures, whereas the cardiovascular involvement was limited to mitral regurgitation. We performed a panel analysis of genes associated with inheritable heart diseases using the TruSight Cardio kit (Illumina). A skin biopsy was then performed for functional studies to analyze the different forms of collagen molecules produced in vitro by cutaneous fibroblasts. Results The patient presented the novel variant c.3478A>G (p.Ile1160Val) in COL3A1 (NM_000090.3), whose pathogenicity was supported by biochemical analysis of type III collagen. Conclusion In this report, we describe a case of vEDS with predominant and severe musculoskeletal involvement. Our findings provide insight into genetic variants and clinical expression of vEDS, broadening the clinical scenario of the syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Ruscitti
- DINOGMI Department, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy.,Medical Genetics Unit, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Lucia Trevisan
- DINOGMI Department, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy.,Medical Genetics Unit, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Giulia Rosti
- DINOGMI Department, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy.,Medical Genetics Unit, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Fabio Gotta
- Medical Genetics Unit, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Annalia Cianflone
- DINOGMI Department, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy.,Medical Genetics Unit, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | | | - Paola Origone
- DINOGMI Department, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy.,Medical Genetics Unit, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Anna Pichiecchio
- Neuroradiology Department, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy.,Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Simona Viglio
- Biochemistry Unit, Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Maria Iascone
- Medical Genetics Laboratory, Hospital Papa Giovanni XXIII, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Paola Mandich
- DINOGMI Department, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy.,Medical Genetics Unit, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
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14
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Malek S, Köster DV. The Role of Cell Adhesion and Cytoskeleton Dynamics in the Pathogenesis of the Ehlers-Danlos Syndromes and Hypermobility Spectrum Disorders. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:649082. [PMID: 33968931 PMCID: PMC8097055 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.649082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The Ehlers-Danlos syndromes (EDS) are a group of 13 disorders, clinically defined through features of joint hypermobility, skin hyperextensibility, and tissue fragility. Most subtypes are caused by mutations in genes affecting the structure or processing of the extracellular matrix (ECM) protein collagen. The Hypermobility Spectrum Disorders (HSDs) are clinically indistinguishable disorders, but are considered to lack a genetic basis. The pathogenesis of all these disorders, however, remains poorly understood. Genotype-phenotype correlations are limited, and findings of aberrant collagen fibrils are inconsistent and associate poorly with the subtype and severity of the disorder. The defective ECM, however, also has consequences for cellular processes. EDS/HSD fibroblasts exhibit a dysfunctional phenotype including impairments in cell adhesion and cytoskeleton organization, though the pathological significance of this has remained unclear. Recent advances in our understanding of fibroblast mechanobiology suggest these changes may actually reflect features of a pathomechanism we herein define. This review departs from the traditional view of EDS/HSD, where pathogenesis is mediated by the structurally defective ECM. Instead, we propose EDS/HSD may be a disorder of membrane-bound collagen, and consider how aberrations in cell adhesion and cytoskeleton dynamics could drive the abnormal properties of the connective tissue, and be responsible for the pathogenesis of EDS/HSD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabeeha Malek
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, Centre for Mechanochemical Cell Biology, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, United Kingdom
| | - Darius V Köster
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, Centre for Mechanochemical Cell Biology, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, United Kingdom
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15
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Gensemer C, Burks R, Kautz S, Judge DP, Lavallee M, Norris RA. Hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndromes: Complex phenotypes, challenging diagnoses, and poorly understood causes. Dev Dyn 2021; 250:318-344. [PMID: 32629534 PMCID: PMC7785693 DOI: 10.1002/dvdy.220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2020] [Revised: 06/24/2020] [Accepted: 06/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The Ehlers-Danlos syndromes (EDS) are a group of heritable, connective tissue disorders characterized by joint hypermobility, skin hyperextensibility, and tissue fragility. There is phenotypic and genetic variation among the 13 subtypes. The initial genetic findings on EDS were related to alterations in fibrillar collagen, but the elucidation of the molecular basis of many of the subtypes revealed several genes not involved in collagen biosynthesis or structure. However, the genetic basis of the hypermobile type of EDS (hEDS) is still unknown. hEDS is the most common type of EDS and involves generalized joint hypermobility, musculoskeletal manifestations, and mild skin involvement along with the presence of several comorbid conditions. Variability in the spectrum and severity of symptoms and progression of patient phenotype likely depend on age, gender, lifestyle, and expression domains of the EDS genes during development and postnatal life. In this review, we summarize the current molecular, genetic, epidemiologic, and pathogenetic findings related to EDS with a focus on the hypermobile type.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cortney Gensemer
- Department of Regenerative Medicine and Cell Biology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
| | - Randall Burks
- Department of Regenerative Medicine and Cell Biology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
| | - Steven Kautz
- Department of Health Sciences and Research, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
| | - Daniel P. Judge
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
| | - Mark Lavallee
- Department of Family Medicine, Wellspan Health, York, Pennsylvania
| | - Russell A. Norris
- Department of Regenerative Medicine and Cell Biology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
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16
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Errichiello E, Malara A, Grimod G, Avolio L, Balduini A, Zuffardi O. Low penetrance COL5A1 variants in a young patient with intracranial aneurysm and very mild signs of Ehlers-Danlos syndrome. Eur J Med Genet 2020; 64:104099. [PMID: 33189937 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmg.2020.104099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2020] [Revised: 09/18/2020] [Accepted: 11/04/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Spontaneous cervical artery dissection (CeAD) is a major cause of ischemic stroke in young adults, whose genetic susceptibility factors are still largely unknown. Nevertheless, subtle ultrastructural connective tissue alterations (especially in the collagen fibril morphology) are recognized in a large proportion of CeAD patients, in which recent genetic investigations reported an enrichment of variants in genes associated with known connective tissue disorders. In this regard, COL5A1 variants have been reported in a small subset of CeAD patients, with or without classical Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (cEDS) features. We investigated a 22-year-old patient with intracranial aneurysm and mild connective tissue manifestations reminiscent of EDS. Whole-exome sequencing identified two COL5A1 missense variants in trans configuration: NM_000093.5:c.[1588G>A];[4135C>T], NP_000084.3:p.[(Gly530Ser)];[(Pro1379Ser)]. Functional assays demonstrated a significant decrease of collagen α1(V) chain expression in both heterozygous parents compared to control cells, and an additive effect of these two variants in the proband. Interestingly, both parents manifested very subtle EDS signs, such as atrophic scars, recurrent bone fractures, colonic diverticulosis, varicose veins, and osteoarthritis. Our findings emphasize the involvement of COL5A1 in the predisposition to vascular phenotypes and provide novel insights on the c.1588G>A variant, whose functional significance has not been definitely established. In fact, it was previously reported as both "disease modifying", and as a biallelic causative mutation (with heterozygous individuals showing subtle clinical signs of cEDS). We speculated that the c.1588G>A variant might lead to overt phenotype in combination with additional genetic "hits" lowering the collagen α1(V) chain expression below a hypothetical disease threshold.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edoardo Errichiello
- Medical Genetics Unit, Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy.
| | - Alessandro Malara
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy; Laboratory of Biochemistry, Biotechnology and Advanced Diagnostics, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico San Matteo Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Gianluca Grimod
- Unit of Neurosurgery, Department of Neuroscience, Hospital A. Manzoni, Lecco, Italy
| | - Luigi Avolio
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico San Matteo Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Alessandra Balduini
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy; Laboratory of Biochemistry, Biotechnology and Advanced Diagnostics, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico San Matteo Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Orsetta Zuffardi
- Medical Genetics Unit, Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
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17
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Classical-like Ehlers-Danlos syndrome: a clinical description of 20 newly identified individuals with evidence of tissue fragility. Genet Med 2020; 22:1576-1582. [PMID: 32572181 DOI: 10.1038/s41436-020-0850-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2019] [Revised: 05/12/2020] [Accepted: 05/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Currently, 31 patients with classical-like EDS (clEDS) due to tenascin-X deficiency have been reported in the literature. We report on the clinical and molecular characteristics of 20 additional patients with clEDS to expand knowledge and to enable improved management of this rare genetic disorder. METHODS Patients diagnosed with clEDS by the national EDS service in the UK (n = 21) and abroad (n = 1) were asked for consent for publication of their clinical and molecular data. RESULTS Of 22 patients, 20 consented. All patients had typical features of clEDS: joint hypermobility, easy bruising, and skin hyperextensibility without atrophic scars. Importantly, 3/20 patients experienced gastrointestinal complications consisting of small or large bowel ruptures and one esophageal rupture. Other notable observations included two separate occurrences of spontaneous compartment syndrome, suspicion of nonaccidental injury due to significant bruising, and significant clinical variability regarding the debilitating effect of joint dislocations. CONCLUSIONS We propose a predisposition to tissue fragility, particularly of the gastrointestinal tract in patients with clEDS. As such, clinical and molecular confirmation of this diagnosis is essential. It is recommended to follow up these patients closely to understand the natural history to develop better recommendations for management.
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18
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Steele L, O'Toole EA. Pachyonychia congenita, a paradigm for rare skin disorders. Br J Dermatol 2020; 182:521-522. [PMID: 32107781 DOI: 10.1111/bjd.18817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- L Steele
- Centre for Cell Biology and Cutaneous Research, Blizard Institute, Queen Mary University of London and Department of Dermatology, Barts Health NHS Trust, London, ERN-Skin, U.K
| | - E A O'Toole
- Centre for Cell Biology and Cutaneous Research, Blizard Institute, Queen Mary University of London and Department of Dermatology, Barts Health NHS Trust, London, ERN-Skin, U.K
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19
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Hausser I. Diagnosis of Ehlers-Danlos syndrome: data deficiency still does not allow establishment of a complete history of the disease and its pathomechanisms. Br J Dermatol 2019; 182:535-536. [PMID: 31432500 DOI: 10.1111/bjd.18373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- I Hausser
- Institute of Pathology, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
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