Hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (hEDS) is a prevalent (~1 in 500) yet frequently underdiagnosed connective tissue disorder that presents with multi-system involvement extending far beyond joint hypermobility. Patients often experience prolonged diagnostic delays due to heterogeneous symptom presentation, lack of provider training, and the absence of a definitive genetic marker. Clinicians are uniquely positioned to recognize hEDS earlier through whole-person, systems-based assessment.

This presentation offers a clinically practical framework for identifying hEDS using the 2017 hEDS Diagnostic Criteria, with emphasis on moving beyond isolated diagnostic tools like the Beighton score toward a more comprehensive evaluation of patient history and symptom presentation. Attendees will learn to identify key diagnostic patterns, including chronic pain, joint instability, dysautonomia, and immune-related symptoms.

Particular attention will be given to common comorbidities, including Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome and Mast Cell Activation Syndrome, which frequently coexist in the “trifecta” of hEDS/POTS/MCAS. Understanding these overlapping conditions as part of a broader physiological network can reduce fragmentation of care and uncover the body systems involved: the connective tissue, the nervous system, and the immune system. With an understanding of how these systems present in hEDS/POTS/MCAS, attendees will learn simple and accessible treatment approaches to avoid referring out without providing attuned action steps for their patients.

Through case-based learning and literature review, this session will provide actionable screening strategies, highlight common diagnostic pitfalls, and review key considerations for differential diagnosis, including when to refer for genetic or specialty evaluation. The role of therapeutic alliance, patient validation, and longitudinal care will be emphasized as essential components of effective management.

By equipping clinicians with a foundation for accurate diagnosis and first steps for care plan direction, this presentation aims to support earlier recognition of hEDS, improve care coordination, and enhance outcomes for patients with complex, multi-system presentations.

Beyond Bendy: Improving Recognition and Diagnosis of Hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (hEDS) and Its Comorbidities w/Riley Goodrich, NBC-HWC M.Ed