I am still learning about my diagnosis and I am just trying to understand what exactly MCTD is ?
Same, mctd then lupus. I had the pos ana & rnp.
Yes, I was diag MCTD, then added lupus.
This is true! I was diagnosed a few years ago.
MCTD is an overlap of different autoimmune diseases, including lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and possibly scleroderma and polymyositis. The progression varies a lot among individuals, but Raynaud's tends to be an issue, and skin, GI, and lung problems can be worsen than with lupus. Serious kidney disease is rare, which is a good thing. High levels of a particular antibody, U RNP, basically define it.
JL, please try not to worry too much about the diagnosis and focus on excellent self-care instead. With lupus or MCTD, many things can go wrong with our bodies, but careful attention to rest, UV protection, a healthy diet, stress reduction, and gentle exercise are critical and protective. 😘
I was diagnosed with the same plus Sjogrens.