MIXED CONNECTIVE TISSUE DISEASE

June 27, 2013

According to Mayo Clinic report #D500675, http://Mayoclinic.com/health.MCT, it is mostly young women who get this disease much like Lupus. It can also feature symptoms of Scleroderma and Polymyositis. I haven't gotten either of these last two diseases. In addition these symptoms don't present all at the same time. Mixed connective Tissue Disease often involves the fingers which turn white and numb. Raynauds had already been diagnosed for me by this time. In the later stages of MCT the lungs, heart and kidneys may be involved. AS in most of these autoimmune diseases it is difficult to get definitive diagnoses.

 

Symptoms of Mixed Connective Tissue Disease

• A general feeling of being unwell and sometimes an increase in fatigue.
  
• Cold and numb fingers. One of the most common early indicators is known as Raynaud's phenomenon in which your fingers feel cold and numb in response to cold or stress. Toes also can be affected.
  
• Swollen fingers. Many people with mixed connective tissue disease experience swelling in their hands and fingers.
  
• Muscle and joint pain. Next connective tissue disease can result in muscle aches and joint swelling. Joints may become deformed similar to rheumatoid arthritis.
  

When to see a doctor

Make an appointment if your symptoms are bothersome enough to interfere with your daily routine, especially if you have already been diagnosed with Lupus or another connective tissue disease. Doctors don't know what causes the disease. It is known as an autoimmune disease. In mixed connective tissue diseases your immune system mistakenly attacks the fibers that provide a framework and support in your body. Women under the age of 30 are at the greatest risk. You may not need treatment if you have a mild form of the disease.

Medication

• Corticosteroids. Prednisone is one of the standard drugs used to control your immune function. However, side effects can include mood swings, weight gain, high blood sugar and increase blood pressure or weakened bones and even cataracts
  
• Immunosuppressant. If your signs and symptoms of organ involvement, similar to those of lupus may call for a stronger drug
  

 

Resources

The National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD): patient assistance programs, patient information Center online communities, news about clinical trials, patient stories, rare disease database, patient organizations database, advocacy alliance, news and events.

 

 

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