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What does it mean to have undifferentiated connective tissue disease with positive lupus markers?

Having undifferentiated connective tissue disease (UCTD) with some positive lupus markers means you have symptoms and test results that suggest a connective tissue disorder, but they don't quite add up to a full lupus diagnosis Show Full Answer

What does it mean to have undifferentiated connective tissue disease with positive lupus markers?

Having undifferentiated connective tissue disease (UCTD) with some positive lupus markers means you have symptoms and test results that suggest a connective tissue disorder, but they don't quite add up to a full lupus diagnosis yet.

Here's what's happening:

- You need a positive ANA test plus enough other symptoms to reach a certain point threshold for a lupus diagnosis
- If you have some lupus-related symptoms but not enough points, doctors may call it incomplete lupus, borderline lupus, or UCTD
- Your symptoms might match lupus in some ways but not meet all the criteria needed for a definitive diagnosis

What happens next varies:

Some people eventually develop enough symptoms to get a lupus diagnosis. A MyLupusTeam member shared: "On Friday, I finally got a diagnosis of lupus. I have been borderline for two years."

Others maintain an undifferentiated diagnosis long-term. One member said: "I have had borderline lupus for over 30 years."

The important thing is that your rheumatologist should still work with you to manage your symptoms and help you feel better, even without a definitive lupus diagnosis. Don't hesitate to ask your doctor what specific symptoms they're seeing and what would need to change for a lupus diagnosis.

 AI-generated responses are not a substitute for medical advice. These services are not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any condition or disease. Always ask your doctor about specific health concerns.

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