No. Although the two conditions require similar treatment, there are important differences in the diagnostic criteria.[1] Whereas both conditions involve symptomatic hypermobility, additional criteria need to be met to qualify for an hEDS diagnosis. Physical features such as hyperextensible skin, an arm span-to-height ratio of ≥1.05, and atrophic scarring are considered, as well as family history of hEDS. These unique features facilitate research into the genetic basis of hEDS.[2][3]
| Hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (hEDS) | Hypermobility spectrum disorder (HSD) | |
|---|---|---|
| Diagnostic criteria | Must have the following three characteristics: 1) overall joint hypermobility; 2) at least 5 systemic symptoms (e.g. velvet skin, atrophic scars, overly elastic skin); 3) phenotype does not fit an alternative diagnosis | A joint or a group of joints can move beyond physiologic limits. Other etiologies for joint hypermobility are excluded |
| Prognosis | Chronic symptoms that may worsen over time (joint pain, fatigue, headaches, injury) | Chronic symptoms and manifestations that may worsen over time (joint pain, fatigue, injury, headaches) |
| Treatment | Symptom management (pain relief) and preventing injury | Symptom management and preventing injury |