Mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD) is a rare autoimmune condition characterized by the presence of the anti-U1-ribonucleoprotein antibody. It falls within the category of rheumatic "overlap syndromes," which refers to patients displaying features of more than one classic inflammatory rheumatic disease, including systemic lupus erythematosus, polymyositis, scleroderma, and rheumatoid arthritis. MCTD is distinguished by the presence of anti-RNP antibodies.
Symptoms of AiArthritis Diseases Regardless of Diagnosis
“Auto” Symptoms
Reference: Early Symptoms of AiArthritis Study, AiArthritis, 2019.
Typically the joint pain will coincide with one or more “Auto” symptoms and start and stop suddenly - for no apparent reason (which is called a "flare"). Some people will experience all of the above symptoms, others only a few. If you have any of the arthritis features, and at least one of the “Auto” features, please consult your physician about a referral to a rheumatologist.
Symptoms Often Associated with Mixed Connective Tissue Disease:
What fellow patients want you to know
Do you have Mixed Connective Tissue Disease (MCTD)? Let us know what YOU would want those with MCTD or those who are not yet diagnosed to know!
There’s no single definitive test that can confirm a mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD) diagnosis, so rheumatologists look at a combination of physical exam, blood tests, and family history of autoimmune disease. The blood tests that are specifically looked at are conducted to detect the presence anti-U1-ribonucleoprotein (anti-U1-RNP) antibodies, which is a hallmark laboratory finding in MCTD and antinuclear antibodies (ANA) which is looked at in many autoimmune and autoinflammatory diseases. Overlapping of symptoms with lupus, systemic sclerosis, and polymyositis are also often found in those with MCTD.
There is a diagnostic criteria called Alarcon-Segovia that may be used. These criteria require a high titer of positive anti-U1-RNP (over 1 per 1600) and three or more of the following clinical manifestations: Raynaud phenomenon, hand edema, synovitis, histologically proven myositis, and acrosclerosis.
In an effort to ensure this page has the most accurate and up-to-date information, this page is currently awaiting medical review. Some information is subject to change.
Page Last Updated: 9/1/2023
International Foundation for AiArthritis
6605 Nottingham Ave.
St. Louis, MO 63109-2661
Copyright 2024. All rights reserved. Information on this site is intended for informational purposes only Our foundation does not engage in the practice of medicine. Please consult a physician to obtain personal healthcare and treatment options. 501(c) 3 Nonprofit Tax ID: 27-1214308.