What is connective tissue disease overlap syndrome?
Overlap syndrome means you have symptoms of multiple autoimmune conditions at the same time. If you have this diagnosis, you might experience symptoms from lupus along with features of other connective tissue diseases.
Mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD) is one type of Show Full Answer
What is connective tissue disease overlap syndrome?
Overlap syndrome means you have symptoms of multiple autoimmune conditions at the same time. If you have this diagnosis, you might experience symptoms from lupus along with features of other connective tissue diseases.
Mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD) is one type of overlap syndrome. People with MCTD may have symptoms of:
- Lupus
- Scleroderma
- Myositis (muscle inflammation)
Some MyLupusTeam members share similar experiences. One member said, "My doctor teeters between diagnosing me with lupus and MCTD. I have several markers for lupus but not enough for a definitive diagnosis."
Another member noted, "I was told connective tissue diseases can overlap, and I think it is much more common than we realize." Managing overlapping symptoms
Having overlapping conditions can make it challenging to identify which symptoms come from which condition. One member shared, "Can anyone tell if their pain is from arthritis, fibromyalgia, Ehlers-Danlos, Sjögren's, lupus, or everything at once?"
The key to managing your care is:
- Stick to your treatment plans
- Communicate openly with your healthcare team
- Keep detailed notes about your symptoms
- Be patient as you work with your doctor to find the right treatment approach
Writing down your symptoms can help you provide a complete picture during appointments, which helps your doctor evaluate what's happening and adjust your care accordingly.
February 16
Join
Your Privacy Choices
