Mixed connective tissue disease

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Mixed connective tissue disease has signs and symptoms of a combination of disorders — primarily lupus, scleroderma and polymyositis. For this reason, mixed connective tissue disease is sometimes referred to as an overlap disease.

In mixed connective tissue disease, the symptoms of the separate diseases usually don’t appear all at once. Instead, they tend to occur in sequence over a number of years, which can make diagnosis more complicated.

Early signs and symptoms often involve the hands. Fingers might get puffy, and the fingertips become white and numb, often in response to cold exposure. In later stages, some organs — such as the lungs, heart and kidneys — may be affected.

There’s no cure for mixed connective tissue disease. The signs and symptoms are usually treated with certain medications, such as prednisone.

Early indications of mixed connective tissue disease can include:

See your doctor if you have signs and symptoms that interfere with your daily routine — particularly if you’ve already been diagnosed with lupus or another connective tissue disease.

The precise cause of mixed connective tissue disease isn’t known.

Mixed connective tissue disease is an autoimmune disorder. In autoimmune disorders, your immune system — responsible for fighting off disease — mistakenly attacks healthy cells.

In connective tissue diseases, your immune system attacks the fibers that provide the framework and support for your body. Researchers are working to identify proteins produced by the immune system that might cause mixed connective tissue disease.

Some people with mixed connective tissue disease have a family history of the condition. But the role of genetics in causing the disease remains unclear.

Mixed connective tissue disease can occur in people of any age. However, it appears to be most common in women under the age of 50.

Mixed connective tissue disease can lead to serious complications, including:

Corticosteroids are commonly used to manage the signs and symptoms of mixed connective tissue disease. These medications are effective, but they carry risks.

Your doctor will likely monitor you for adverse effects, such as osteoporosis, muscle weakness and infection. You may need to take calcium and vitamin D supplements to help ease these adverse effects.

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Mixed connective tissue disease

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