Mixed connective tissue disease
MCTD
Autoimmune conditionAn overlap condition with features of lupus, scleroderma, and myositis, marked by high levels of an antibody called anti-U1 RNP.
What happens
It often starts with Raynaud's and puffy fingers, then joint pain, muscle inflammation, or skin changes. Over time some people's symptoms come to look more like one specific condition. Lung involvement, including high blood pressure in the lungs, is the most important complication to watch for.
Who gets it
Much more common in women, and usually diagnosed between 15 and 40.
Common signs
- Fingers turning white or blue in the cold (Raynaud's)
- Swollen, puffy fingers
- Joint pain
- Muscle weakness or aches
- Fatigue and low-grade fevers
- Shortness of breath
- Heartburn or trouble swallowing
Labs to ask about
- ANA
- Anti-U1 RNP antibodies
- CK (muscle enzyme)
- Echocardiogram and lung function tests
- Complete blood count
How it's usually treated
- Hydroxychloroquine
- Anti-inflammatories or low-dose steroids for flares
- Immune-suppressing medicines when organs are involved
- Treatment for Raynaud's
Supportive steps to discuss with your provider
- Keep your hands and core warm.
- Stop smoking. It narrows blood vessels further.
- Keep up regular heart and lung screening, even when you feel well.
See a doctor promptly if you have
- Shortness of breath or chest pain
- A finger sore that won't heal, or a fingertip turning dark
- Trouble swallowing
Related conditions
Lupus
A whole-body autoimmune disease that can inflame the skin, joints, kidneys, blood, heart, lungs, and brain.
Learn more →Scleroderma
The immune system drives thickening and scarring of the skin, and sometimes internal organs, along with damage to small blood vessels.
Learn more →Dermatomyositis & myositis
Autoimmune conditions in which the immune system inflames the muscles, causing weakness. Dermatomyositis also causes a distinctive rash.
Learn more →
Wondering if your symptoms fit a pattern?
Dr. Lesher is a naturopathic doctor who specializes in women's autoimmune and chronic conditions. Since 2020, she has helped more than 900 patients overcome and heal from their conditions.