The gastrointestinal effects amongst Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, mast cell activation syndrome and postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome

Abstract

Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS), mast cell activation syndrome, and postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome are a triad of comorbid conditions that can occur simultaneously in many patients. Specifically, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome is a group of inherited connective tissue disorders that weakens the connective tissue and causes easy bruising. Mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS) is a condition in the connective tissue of vascularized organs that causes recurrent episodes of anaphylactic symptoms. The irregular activation of mast cells may contribute to immunological manifestations in EDS patients. Postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) is an autonomic nervous system disorder characterized by orthostatic intolerance. Review of the literature suggests an overlap of gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms such as nausea and abdominal pain, hernias, perforations, and more. Thus, this paper will delineate each condition's distinct gastrointestinal symptoms and explore similar gastrointestinal relationships among these conditions.