Hyperelastic skin

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Ehlers-Danlos, hyperelasticity of the skin

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

India rubber skin

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.

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 joints that can be bent more than is normally possible.

Other diseases that may cause easily stretchable skin include:

• Marfan syndrome
• Osteogenesis imperfecta
• Pseudoxanthoma elasticum
• Subcutaneous T-cell lymphoma
• Sun-related changes of older skin

Review Date: 10/10/2010
Reviewed By: Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington, School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org).

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