Medical studies

Research on EDS, gastroparesis and related conditions is moving forward. We select studies and summarise them simply, for patients, loved ones and healthcare professionals.

Featured studies

EDS

The 2017 international classification of the Ehlers-Danlos syndromes

Malfait et al., International EDS Consortium · American Journal of Medical Genetics · 2017

This reference text recognises 13 types of EDS and sets out clinical criteria for each. Except for hypermobile EDS, the diagnosis must be confirmed by a genetic test. The criteria for hypermobile EDS were revised to better distinguish it from other forms of hypermobility.

Read the study
Gastroparesis

The American guidelines on gastroparesis

Camilleri et al., American College of Gastroenterology · American Journal of Gastroenterology · 2022

The American College of Gastroenterology reviews the risk factors, diagnosis and management of gastroparesis in adults. Gastric emptying scintigraphy remains the reference test. For treatment, it recommends a small-particle diet and reviews medicines and procedures on the pylorus.

Read the study
EDS and digestive problems

Gastrointestinal involvement in the Ehlers-Danlos syndromes

Fikree et al. · American Journal of Medical Genetics · 2017

EDS can affect the digestive tract in two ways: through structural problems (hiatus hernia, prolapse…) and through gut motility disorders. In hypermobile EDS, digestive symptoms are common and weigh on quality of life. The authors call for specific guidelines and for precautions in case of surgery.

Read the study
POTS and dysautonomia

Cardiovascular autonomic dysfunction in hypermobile EDS

Hakim et al. · American Journal of Medical Genetics · 2017

Fast heart rate, low blood pressure, gut motility problems: autonomic dysfunction, including POTS, is often seen in specialist clinics in people with hypermobile EDS, and affects quality of life. The authors describe the useful tests (up to the tilt-table test) and treatments, starting with non-drug measures such as hydration and physical reconditioning.

Read the study
MCAS

Mast cell disorders in Ehlers-Danlos syndrome

Seneviratne et al. · American Journal of Medical Genetics · 2017

Mast cells, known for their role in allergies, are abundant in connective tissues: skin, digestive tract, airways and urinary tract. This review explains how they work and the research linking their dysregulation to some types of EDS, hypersensitivity reactions and dysautonomia.

Read the study
Autism

Autism, joint hypermobility-related disorders and pain

Baeza-Velasco et al., French teams · Frontiers in Psychiatry · 2018

Autism and hypermobility-related disorders such as EDS are followed by different specialities, yet they seem to occur together more often than chance would predict. The authors warn that pain may go unnoticed in autistic people: knowing more about this link helps to spot it and treat it.

Read the study

Taking part in a study

Reference and expert centres run or share studies: they are the best place to find out whether there is one that suits you. Ongoing clinical trials are also listed in public registries.

A genuine study is supervised: its purpose, constraints and risks are explained to you, you give written consent and you can stop at any time.

Find an EDS reference centre

Where to find ongoing studies?

Medical information

The summaries offered here are for information only. A single study is not enough to change a course of care: always discuss it with a healthcare professional.

Running a study?

Make it known to patients and their loved ones: write to us and we can share it.

Suggested searches