Difficulty eating and significant weight loss in joint hypermobility syndrome/Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, hypermobility type

Eat Weight Disord. 2016 Jun;21(2):175-83. doi: 10.1007/s40519-015-0232-x. Epub 2015 Oct 27.

Abstract

Joint Hypermobility Syndrome, also known as Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome Hypermobility Type (JHS/EDS-HT), is a heritable disorder of connective tissue, common but poorly known by the medical community. Although generalized joint hypermobility and fragility of tissues have been described as core features, recent research highlights the multisystemic nature of JHS/EDS-HT, which presents with a wide range of articular and extra-articular symptoms. Among these, gastrointestinal problems, temporomandibular disorders, and smell and taste abnormalities are common among those affected, having significant implications for eating. The present work reviews the literature linking JHS/EDS-HT and eating problems. Two illustrative case reports, in which JHS/EDS-HT manifestations contribute to developing and maintaining disturbed eating behaviors and significant weight loss, are presented.

Keywords: Anorexia nervosa; Eating problems; Ehlers–Danlos syndrome; Gastrointestinal symptoms; Joint hypermobility syndrome; Pain; Smell and taste disorders; Temporomandibular disturbances.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome / complications*
  • Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome / physiopathology
  • Feeding and Eating Disorders / complications*
  • Feeding and Eating Disorders / physiopathology
  • Humans
  • Weight Loss / physiology*