Bone Densitometry Parameters in Females with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome—Does the Hypermobile Subtype Increase the Risk of Low Bone Mass in Patients with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome?

TL;DR

This study found no increased risk of low bone mass in females with hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome compared to those with the classical subtype.

Contribution

The study provides new evidence that hypermobile EDS does not increase the risk of low bone mass.

Findings

No differences were found in densitometry parameters between classical and hypermobile EDS groups.

Hypermobile EDS patients did not show an increased risk of low bone mass (Z-score < −2).

Calcium-phosphate metabolism markers were similar in both EDS subtypes.

Abstract

Background: The purpose of this study was to assess bone densitometry parameters in patients with classical and hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS) and to determine whether the hypermobile subtype increases the risk of low bone mass, which is particularly important in this patient group, since the genetic mutation responsible for this subtype is still unknown. Material and Methods: In order to conduct this study, we collaborated with the EDS society in Poland. A total of 30 females of reproductive age who were included in the study were divided into two groups: Group 1—those with classical EDS (n = 9) and Group 2—those with hypermobile EDS (n = 21). Routine laboratory test results, bone turnover markers, and densitometry parameters were evaluated and compared. Results: The study groups showed no differences in terms of densitometry parameters or markers of calcium-phosphate metabolism. A multivariate logistic analysis demonstrated no increase in the risk of low bone mass (defined as a Z-score lower than −2) in patients with hypermobile EDS (OR 0.067 [95% Cl 0.0–20.927]; p = 0.356). Conclusions: The hypermobile subtype of EDS does not increase the risk of low bone mass; there were no significant differences between patients with hypermobile EDS and those with classical EDS in terms of either densitometry parameters or markers of calcium-phosphate metabolism. Although patients with hypermobile EDS are not at a higher risk of developing low bone mineral density, they should be regularly monitored for any calcium and phosphate metabolism abnormalities.

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