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Published in: Orphanet Journal of Rare Diseases 1/2024

Open Access 01-12-2024 | Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome | Research

Patient interest in the development of a center for Ehlers-Danlos syndrome/hypermobility spectrum disorder in the Chicagoland region

Authors: Wendy Wagner, Tom A. Doyle, Clair A. Francomano, Dacre R. T. Knight, Colin M. E. Halverson

Published in: Orphanet Journal of Rare Diseases | Issue 1/2024

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Abstract

Background

The Ehlers-Danlos Syndromes (EDS) are a group of connective tissue disorders that are hereditary in nature and characterized by joint hypermobility and tissue fragility. The complex nature of this unique patient population requires multidisciplinary care, but appropriate centers for such care do not exist in large portions of the country. Need for more integrated services has been identified in Chicagoland, or Chicago and its suburbs. In order to explore and begin to address barriers to seeking appropriate care facing EDS patients in this region, we developed an online survey which we circulated through EDS social media groups for Chicagoland patients.

Results

Three hundred and nine unique respondents participated. We found that there exists a strong medical need for and interest in the development of a center in the region, and participants reported that, if made available to them, they would make extensive and regular use of such a facility.

Conclusions

We conclude that the establishment of a collaborative medical center specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of EDS, Hypermobility Spectrum Disorder, and related disorders in the Chicagoland area would greatly benefit patients by providing comprehensive care, alleviate the burden on overworked healthcare providers, and contribute to the sustainability of medical facilities.
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Metadata
Title
Patient interest in the development of a center for Ehlers-Danlos syndrome/hypermobility spectrum disorder in the Chicagoland region
Authors
Wendy Wagner
Tom A. Doyle
Clair A. Francomano
Dacre R. T. Knight
Colin M. E. Halverson
Publication date
01-12-2024
Publisher
BioMed Central
Published in
Orphanet Journal of Rare Diseases / Issue 1/2024
Electronic ISSN: 1750-1172
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1186/s13023-024-03109-w

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