부산대학교 도서관

Background Patients with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome-hypermobility type ( EDS- HT) have increased prevalence of gastrointestinal ( GI) symptoms, particularly reflux and dyspepsia. EDS- HT is associated with dysautonomia, psychopathology, and chronic pain which can be associated with GI symptoms. The association between GI symptoms and EDS- HT in a 'non-patient' population and the effect of the above-mentioned factors has never been studied. Methods In a cross sectional study, a hypermobility questionnaire was used to screen university students; further clinical examination established the diagnosis of EDS- HT. Validated questionnaires assessed for GI, somatic, pain and autonomic symptoms, psychopathology and quality of life ( QOL). These were compared in students with and without EDS- HT; logistic regression analysis examined associations between EDS- HT, GI symptoms and other variables. Key Results Of 1998 students screened, 162 were included: 74 EDS- HT (21.0 years, 53% female) vs 88 Non- EDS- HT (21.5 years, 65% female). Compared to non- EDS- HT students, EDS- HT students were more likely to have multiple GI symptoms (41.9% vs 27.3% P=.05), particularly postprandial fullness (34.4% vs 15.9%, P=.01) and early satiety (32% vs 17%, P=.03), greater autonomic ( P<.001) and somatic symptoms ( P=.04) but not psychopathology ( P>.8). The association between EDS- HT and postprandial symptoms was dependent on autonomic factors but independent of pain and psychopathology. Pain-related QOL scores were reduced in the EDS- HT group (80 vs 90, P=.03). Conclusions and Inferences The previously described association between EDS- HT, dyspepsia, pain and autonomic symptoms in patients is also present in non-patient groups. Future studies are necessary to explore the etiological role of connective tissue in GI and extra intestinal symptoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]