Complications of Mixed Connective Tissue Disease
Mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD) is associated with various complications that can significantly impact multiple areas of the body. One of the most severe complications is pulmonary hypertension, which is both a serious health concern and the leading cause of death in individuals diagnosed with MCTD. Additionally, heart disease ranks as the second leading cause of mortality in this patient population.
MCTD can also detrimentally affect other vital organs, such as the kidneys and gastrointestinal tract. It may lead to kidney damage and impair the normal functioning of the digestive system. Furthermore, some individuals with MCTD may experience anemia, a condition characterized by a deficiency of red blood cells, as well as hearing loss.
Diagnosis of Mixed Connective Tissue Disease
Diagnosing mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD) can be challenging due to its overlapping symptoms with lupus, scleroderma, and polymyositis, which tend to develop gradually over several years. However, certain characteristics of MCTD can aid in the diagnosis process. Unlike lupus, MCTD does not typically cause kidney and central nervous system damage. Additionally, individuals with MCTD often experience Raynaud phenomenon, severe arthritis, and pulmonary hypertension more frequently compared to those with other autoimmune diseases. Another diagnostic indicator for MCTD is elevated levels of the antibody anti-U1-RNP, which can be detected through blood tests.