Mixed Connective Tissue Disease (MCTD) Signs and Symptoms

Mixed Connective Tissue Disease (MCTD) is a diagnosis given to a collection of symptoms that have similarities to lupus, scleroderma, rheumatoid arthritis, and other connective tissue diseases. It is a chronic autoimmune condition whose signs and symptoms overlap with signs and symptoms of the afore-mentioned diseases. We have put together a list of common signs and symptoms of mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD) below.

Also, we have information on diagnosis, helpful books and valuable resources for patients.

The Most Common Signs and Symptoms of Mixed Connective Tissue Disease include:

Symptoms of Raynaud’s phenomena – cold sensitivity of the fingers and toes, with tingling, numbness and color changes of the skin
Rashes, including a Lupus-like rash on the face
Swollen hands
Swollen fingers
Joint pain
Muscle weakness
Shortness of breath
Fever
Abdominal pain
Dry eyes
Dry mouth
Difficulty swallowing
Hair loss
Spider veins on the face and hands
Swollen lymph nodes
Shoulder pain
Hip pain
Heartburn

Diagnosis of Mixed Connective Tissue Disease

A diagnosis of mixed connective tissue disease is given when lupus, scleroderma and rheumatoid arthritis symptoms overlap. A diagnosis of mixed connective tissue disease may be difficult, and the disease sometimes progresses to a later diagnosis of one of these conditions. Eight out of ten patients with mixed connective tissue disease are women. It can occur at any age, though the average age of onset is late adolescence to the thirties. Sometimes the symptoms are fairly mild, and can disappear for long periods of time.

Books for People With Signs and Symptoms of Mixed Connective Tissue Disease

Mixed Connective Tissue Disease – A Medical Dictionary, Bibliography, and Annotated Research Guide to Internet References ICON Health Publications	Connective Tissue Diseases: Holistic Therapy Options–Sjoegren¿s Syndrome; Systemic Sclerosis – Scleroderma; Systemic Lupus Erythematosus; Discoid Lupus Erythematosus; Secondary and Primary Raynaud¿s phenomenon; Raynaud¿s Disease; Polymyositis ¿ Dermatomyositis Hannelore Helbing-Sheafe


Mixed Connective Tissue Disease and Antinuclear Antibodies: International Symposium Proceedings (International Congress) Reiji Kasukawa	Living Well with Autoimmune Disease: What Your Doctor Doesn’t Tell You…That You Need to Know Mary J. Shomon

Mixed Connective Tissue Disease (MCTD) Resources

General Patient Resources

American Autoimmune Related Diseases Association

Information, advocacy, events and forum.

http://www.aarda.org/forum2/comments.php?DiscussionID=29

Experience Project

Anonymously connect with people who share your experiences– like those who say ‘I Have Mixed Connective Tissue Disease’. Read hundreds of true stories, share your own story anonymously, get feedback and comments, chat in the discussion forum, help others, meet new friends, and so much more– all free.

http://www.experienceproject.com/groups/Have-Mixed-Connective-Tissue-Disease/93503

Lupus MCTD Foundation

An inactive site for reading only.

http://www.lupusmctd.com/index.php?PHPSESSID=602a5abb1cc69b6e2014494e6c0e6887;www

Medical Resources

Mayo Clinic

Comprehensive overview covers symptoms, treatments for this rare autoimmune disorder.

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/mixed-connective-tissue-disease/DS00675

MedicineNet . com

Information on mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD) symptoms, types, treatment and prognosis. MCTD is an overlap of lupus, scleroderma and polymyositis.

http://www.medicinenet.com/mixed_connective_tissue_disease/article.htm

Medscape Reference

http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/335815-overview

Professional articles, clinical insights and the latest treatments and technologies.

http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/335815-overview