Understanding Diffuse connective tissue disease: Causes, Symptoms, and Management

What is it?

Mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD) may involve signs and symptoms of several rheumatoid diseases such as lupus, scleroderma, and polymyositis. The symptoms typically begin gradually, while in later stages of the disease some organs may be affected such as the lungs, heart and kidneys. MCTD is an autoimmune condition, and its specific cause is unknown.

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Additional names

This group contains additional names:
- Mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD)
- Connective Tissue Disease

Signs & symptoms

Mixed connective tissue disease symptoms may include fatigue, mild fever, raynaud’s phenomenon (cold and numb fingers in response to cold), swollen fingers or hands, muscle pain, joint pain and rash.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is based upon findings from medical history and physical examination. Further evaluation may include blood tests for antibodies presence.

Treatment

There is no cure for this condition. Treatment may include steroids, antimalarial drugs, calcium channel blockers, and other immunosuppressants.

☝️ This is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult with your physician before making any medical decision.

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Source of Information - We analyze big data of more than 23 million patients de-identified medical records from the following sources:

National Institution of Health ∙ World Health Organization ∙ University of Illinois hospital