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Hyperelastic skin

Definition

Hyperelastic skin is skin that can be stretched beyond what's considered normal, and then returns to normal.

Alternative Names

Considerations

Hyperelasticity occurs when there is a problem with the production of collagen fibers. Collagen is a type of protein that makes up much of the body's tissue.

Causes

Hyperelastic skin is most often seen in the Ehlers-Danlos syndrome. People with this disorder are sometimes referred to as rubber men (or women) because of the increased elasticity of their skin and hyperextensible joints (the joints can be bent more than is normally possible).

Other diseases that may cause easily stretchable skin include Marfan syndrome, pseudoxanthoma elasticum, osteogenesis imperfecta, cutis laxa, cutaneous T-cell lymphoma, and sun-related changes of older skin.

Home Care

People with hyperelastic skin are more likely than others to experience damage to the skin (cuts, scrapes, scarring). The skin may be more delicate than normal skin. Extra care must be taken to avoid damage to the skin, and the skin should be examined frequently for problems. Consult your health care provider for specific recommendations.

When to Contact a Medical Professional

• Your child appears to have delicate skin
• The skin appears to be very stretchy

What to Expect at Your Office Visit

Your doctor will perform a physical examination.

Your doctor may ask questions about your symptoms, such as:

• Did the skin appear abnormal at or near the time of birth, or did this develop over time?
• Is there a history of the skin becoming damaged easily, or being slow to heal?
• Was Ehlers-Danlos syndrome suspected or confirmed as a diagnosis for you or any member of your family?
• What other symptoms are also present?

The physical examination may include detailed skin, skeleton, and muscle examination. The joints may be moved in several directions to assess the distance and direction of movement in each joint.

If Ehlers-Danlos syndrome is suspected, medical tests may include:

• Lysyl oxidase (an enzyme detected with a blood test)
• Lysyl hydroxylase (an enzyme detected with a blood test)
• Serum copper level
• Serum ceruloplasmin level
• Collagen typing (determines the particular type of collagen fiber affected -- this can help to predict future problems)
• Platelet aggregation test
• Skin biopsy

If Ehlers-Danlos syndrome is diagnosed, your physician may wish to refer you to other health care providers such as rheumatologists, ophthalmologists, geneticists, and dentists.

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