MyLupusTeam

Are you asking about having multiple connective tissue diseases at once, or about Mixed Connective Tissue Disease (MCTD)?

Mixed Connective Tissue Disease (MCTD) is an overlap syndrome where you experience symptoms of several rheumatic diseases simultaneously. If you have MCTD, you may have symptoms of lupus, rheumatoid Show Full Answer

Are you asking about having multiple connective tissue diseases at once, or about Mixed Connective Tissue Disease (MCTD)?

Mixed Connective Tissue Disease (MCTD) is an overlap syndrome where you experience symptoms of several rheumatic diseases simultaneously. If you have MCTD, you may have symptoms of lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, myositis (muscle inflammation), and scleroderma all at the same time.

MCTD is diagnosed when you have overlap syndrome symptoms plus a positive RNP antibody test. About 95-100% of people with MCTD test positive for RNP antibodies.

Common symptoms of MCTD include:
- Raynaud's phenomenon (fingers turning blue or white in cold, affecting about 90% of people with MCTD)
- Swollen hands
- Joint pain, inflammation, and swelling
- Trouble swallowing
- Hair loss
- Skin inflammation or rashes after sun exposure

Some MyLupusTeam members have shared that their doctors go back and forth between diagnosing lupus and MCTD, especially when they have several lupus markers but not enough for a definitive lupus diagnosis.

Is there a specific aspect of MCTD or multiple connective tissue conditions you'd like to know more about?

 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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