An Overlooked Diagnosis in Rheumatology: Benign Joint Hypermobility Syndrome

ABSTRACT

Objectives: In this paper, we aim to present the new developments in the clinical findings and treatment of benign joint hypermobility syndrome [BJHS], in the light of recent studies, in an effort to give a better understanding and provide a review for the doctors involved.

Findings: Hypermobility is a clinical sign independent of any rheumatic disease and is characterized by movement of joints beyond the normal range of motion. BJHS is associated with some system pathologies in which the main findings are correlated with the musculoskeletal system and can be easily confused with some hereditary and connective tissue disorders. Clinical signs of BJHS are considered in a range from joint instability to various problems, such as varicose veins and low bone mineral density.

Conclusions: The clinical effects of BJHS are poorly understood by general practitioners and, furthermore, it may be misdiagnosed or neglected by rheumatologists too. For this reason, the clinical signs of this syndrome should be well recognized and patients should be informed about this syndrome.

KEYWORDS. :

• Hypermobility
• benign joint hypermobility syndrome
• clinical findings