Gynecologic Management of Pediatric and Adolescent Patients with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome.

STUDY

OBJECTIVE

Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS) is a connective tissue disorder resulting in abnormal collagen synthesis leading to skin, joint, ligament, blood vessel, and organ abnormalities. Studies in adult women show an association with heavy menstrual bleeding, dysmenorrhea, and pelvic organ prolapse. We aimed to evaluate gynecologic complaints in pediatric and adolescent patients with EDS and their management by pediatric and adolescent gynecology (PAG) Providers. DESIGN, SETTING, PARTICIPANTS, INTERVENTIONS, AND MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Charts of female individuals less than 21 years of age with an International Classification of Diseases (ICD) Ninth or Tenth revision diagnosis of EDS who were evaluated between July 1, 2007, and July 31, 2017, were reviewed for menstrual history, gynecologic complaints, and interventions prescribed.

RESULTS

A total of 156 patients met inclusion criteria, and 26 (16.7%) were seen by PAG providers. The mean age was 14.5 ± 1.9 years. Fifteen (57.7%) reported dysmenorrhea, 13 (50%) complained of heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB), 10 (38.5%) reported irregular menses, and 7 (26.9%) sought contraception. Concurrent medical problems were reviewed, as this affected hormone choice. The cohort was stratified into 2 groups: patients whose menstrual cycles were well controlled on a single method (group A), and patients who tried multiple medications (group B). Progesterone-only pills were most commonly used in froup A. Eleven (73%) patients in group B tried depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA), but ultimately a levonorgestrel intrauterine device (IUD) was the most popular final choice of treatment and was used by 4 (27%) patients.

CONCLUSION

Few adolescents with EDS are referred to PAG providers despite the prevalence of gynecologic complaints and potential for obstetric and gynecologic complications. In this population, early entry to gynecologic care would be beneficial.