Understanding Collagen Disorders: Types, Causes & Symptoms

Collagen is a connective tissue found throughout the human body found in bones, tendons, skin and even organs. Collagen disorder is not a condition, but rather a descriptive term applied to several conditions--typically inherited--that affect the formation or health of collagen.

Types

• The Arthritis Research Campaign reports that there are four major types of collagen disorder: benign joint hypermobility syndrome, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, Marfan's Syndrome and osteogenesis imperfecta.

Causes

• Collagen disorders are typically the result of inherited genetic abnormalities. However, the genetic abnormalities are condition-specific.

Symptoms

• The symptoms of collagen disorders can vary widely by condition and severity. They can include skin abnormalities, hypermobility in the joints, scoliosis, cardiovascular problems, bone fragility and vision problems.

Treatments

• Treatments are also variable depending on the specific condition but may include corrective surgical interventions for bone or cardiovascular abnormalities, medications, physical therapy and braces.

Medical Limitation

• There are no cures available for collagen disorders; treatment modalities focus on management of symptoms. Due to the possibility of lethal versions of the conditions manifesting, those with collagen disorders may be discouraged from having children.