Mixed Connective Tissue Disease (MCTD) is a rare autoimmune condition where a person exhibits overlapping features of multiple connective tissue diseases.
Understanding Mixed Connective Tissue Disease (MCTD)
MCTD is characterized by a combination of symptoms typically seen in diseases like:
- Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE)
- Systemic Sclerosis (Scleroderma)
- Polymyositis
- Dermatomyositis
- Rheumatoid Arthritis
According to the reference provided, MCTD is a rare systemic autoimmune disease with the main features of at least 2 overlapping connective tissue diseases, including systemic lupus erythematosus, systemic sclerosis, polymyositis, dermatomyositis, and rheumatoid arthritis.
Key Aspects of MCTD
- Autoimmune Nature: The body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues.
- Overlapping Symptoms: Patients display symptoms common to several connective tissue diseases.
- Rarity: MCTD is a relatively uncommon condition.