Mixed connective tissue disease
Mixed connective tissue disease Causes
MCTD's fundamental cause remains unknown. Proposed current theories include the loss of T lymphocyte and B lymphocyte tolerance, initiated by cryptic self-antigens, abnormalities of apoptosis, or molecular mimicry by infectious agents.
Mixed connective tissue disease Definition
A disease also known as Sharp syndrome, mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD) is a term used by some experts to describe a collection of symptoms similar to those of systemic lupus erythematosus, scleroderma, polymyositis, and dermatomyositis. MCTD is a serious autoimmune disease in which the body's defense system attacks itself.
Mixed connective tissue disease Diagnosis
Diagnosis of MCTD may include blood tests to detect an antibody to ribonucleoprotein. Symptoms from lupus, scleroderma, polymyositis, or rheumatoid arthritis can also make doctors suspect MCTD in patients.
Mixed connective tissue disease Symptoms and Signs
Most MCTD patients may experience Raynaud phenomenon, arthralgia/arthritis, swollen hands, sclerodactly or acrosclerosis, and mild myositis.
Mixed connective tissue disease Treatment
MCTD treatments aim to control symptoms and maintain function. Specific organ involvement and extent of disease activity are targets of medical therapy. It is also important to monitor the development of complications such as pulmonary hypertension or infection.