What is the prevalence of co-occurring Hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (hEDS) and Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI)?

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Last updated: April 25, 2025View editorial policy

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From the Guidelines

It is extremely rare to have both hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (hEDS) and Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI) simultaneously, and there is no established evidence in recent literature to suggest a common co-occurrence of these two conditions. These conditions are distinct genetic disorders affecting connective tissue, though they share some overlapping symptoms like joint hypermobility and tissue fragility. The provided evidence does not directly address the co-occurrence of hEDS and OI, focusing instead on gastrointestinal issues and the management of patients with hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome 1. While exact statistics on co-occurrence aren't well-established in medical literature, the combination would be uncommon because hEDS and OI have different genetic causes - OI typically results from mutations in collagen type I genes, while hEDS has more complex and not fully understood genetic origins.

Key considerations in the diagnosis and management of these conditions include:

  • Comprehensive evaluation by specialists in medical genetics
  • Detailed family history
  • Physical examination
  • Potentially genetic testing to identify the specific condition
  • Misdiagnosis between these conditions can occur due to symptom overlap, particularly in milder forms of OI which might initially be mistaken for hEDS. Given the lack of direct evidence on the co-occurrence of hEDS and OI in the provided study 1, the approach to patients with suspected co-occurrence should prioritize thorough diagnostic evaluation and management strategies tailored to each individual's specific condition, focusing on minimizing morbidity, mortality, and improving quality of life.

From the Research

Prevalence of Hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome and Osteogenesis Imperfecta

  • There is no direct evidence in the provided studies to suggest the commonality of having both hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (hEDS) and Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI) 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
  • The studies primarily focus on the diagnosis, clinical features, and management of hEDS and hypermobility spectrum disorders, without mentioning the co-occurrence of OI 2, 3, 4, 5.
  • Osteogenesis Imperfecta is not mentioned in any of the provided studies, making it difficult to determine the prevalence of having both conditions 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.

Hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome

  • Hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome is a hereditary disorder of connective tissue, characterized by joint hypermobility, skin and soft tissue manifestations, and musculoskeletal complaints 5.
  • The diagnosis of hEDS relies solely on clinical examination, as its molecular aetiology remains unknown 6.
  • The 2017 International Classification of Ehlers-Danlos syndromes and related disorders identifies 13 clinical types, but hEDS does not have a known genetic mutation to aid in diagnosis 2, 4.

Lack of Research on Co-occurrence

  • There are no research papers provided that directly address the question of how common it is to have both hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome and Osteogenesis Imperfecta 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
  • Further research would be necessary to determine the prevalence of having both conditions, as the current evidence does not provide sufficient information 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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