Ehlers-Danlos syndrome is characterized by

Ehlers-Danlos syndrome is characterized by

• A. Autoimmune destruction of joints
• B. Bacterial infection of connective tissue
• C. Vitamin C deficiency
• D. Genetic disorder characterized by defects in synthesis and structure of collagen, leading to hypermobility of joints, skin hyperextensibility, and other connective tissue abnormalities

Answer: (D)

Collagen defects underlie Ehlers-Danlos syndrome. Because collagen provides the strength and integrity of skin, ligaments, and vessels, problems with its synthesis or structure lead to unusually flexible joints (hypermobility) and overly stretchable or fragile skin (skin hyperextensibility), along with other connective tissue abnormalities. This genetic basis explains the hallmark features seen in the syndrome. In contrast, autoimmune destruction of joints occurs in conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, a bacterial infection would present with signs of infection rather than inherent tissue weakness, and vitamin C deficiency (scurvy) causes impaired collagen cross-linking with gum disease and perifollicular hemorrhages, not a primary collagen synthesis disorder.

Collagen defects underlie Ehlers-Danlos syndrome. Because collagen provides the strength and integrity of skin, ligaments, and vessels, problems with its synthesis or structure lead to unusually flexible joints (hypermobility) and overly stretchable or fragile skin (skin hyperextensibility), along with other connective tissue abnormalities. This genetic basis explains the hallmark features seen in the syndrome. In contrast, autoimmune destruction of joints occurs in conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, a bacterial infection would present with signs of infection rather than inherent tissue weakness, and vitamin C deficiency (scurvy) causes impaired collagen cross-linking with gum disease and perifollicular hemorrhages, not a primary collagen synthesis disorder.