Marisa Wexler, MS,  senior science writer—

Marisa holds a Master of Science in cellular and molecular pathology from the University of Pittsburgh, where she studied novel genetic drivers of ovarian cancer. Her areas of expertise include cancer biology, immunology, and genetics, and she has worked as a science writing and communications intern for the Genetics Society of America.

Articles by Marisa Wexler

Novel procedure used to repair aneurysm in teen with vEDS

A novel minimally invasive surgical procedure called percutaneous transhepatic coil embolization was successfully used to treat an aneurysm in a 17-year-old boy with vascular Ehlers–Danlos syndrome (vEDS), a new study reports. “This case highlights the importance of an integrative multidisciplinary approach in managing complex vascular emergencies and successfully demonstrates…

Artery issues seen more in vEDS than in other blood vessel disorders

People with vascular Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (vEDS) more commonly experience artery problems than people with other disorders that are also marked by weakened blood vessels, a new study reports. The findings could help guide more personalized care and monitoring based on each individual’s condition, researchers said. “Tailored surveillance and management…

Girl with EDS, other disorders endures long diagnostic journey

A young girl endured a long and arduous process as part of an effort to get diagnosed for three co-occurring rare diseases — Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS), chronic nonbacterial osteomyelitis (CNO), and sacroiliac arthritis — but once they were identified the girl was able to get treatment that controlled her…

Researchers urge doctors to talk social media with hEDS patients

Researchers called on doctors to initiate conversations about social media with their hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (hEDS) patients to help them find tools they can use and avoid misinformation. People with hEDS frequently use social media to connect with each other and learn about their disease, though social media can…

New form of EDS identified by mutation in THBS2 gene

A mutation in the gene THBS2 cause a newly defined form of Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS) that’s characterized by unusual flexibility as well as prolonged bleeding and blood vessel abnormalities, a new study reports. The study, “Heterozygous THBS2 pathogenic variant causes Ehlers–Danlos syndrome with prominent vascular features…

Review highlights impact of uncertainty in hypermobile EDS

People with hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (hEDS) often face uncertainty and feelings of dismissal from healthcare providers, a new review paper highlights. The findings underscore how important it is for clinicians to have open and honest conversations with patients, building relationships to foster collaboration, and make patients feel empowered to…