[Depressive and anxiety symptoms in hereditary connective tissue disorders : case description and systematic

PubMed

Insights

Individuals with hereditary connective tissue disorders like Loeys-Dietz syndrome often experience depression and anxiety. Pain, fatigue, and functional limitations appear to contribute to these mental health challenges.

Area of Science:

  • Genetics and Rare Diseases
  • Psychiatry and Mental Health
  • Rheumatology and Connective Tissue Diseases

Background:

  • Hereditary connective tissue disorders (HCTDs) are congenital conditions causing tissue weakness and multisystem issues.
  • Loeys-Dietz syndrome (LDS), Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS), and Marfan syndrome (MFS) are examples of HCTDs.
  • A case of a 14-year-old with LDS presenting with depressive and anxiety symptoms prompted this investigation.

Conclusions:

  • There is a notable link between hereditary connective tissue disorders and higher rates of depression and anxiety.
  • Pain, fatigue, social factors, and functional impairments are likely contributors to mental health issues in these patients.
  • Further research is needed to pinpoint specific contributing factors for targeted prevention and treatment strategies.

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