Connective Tissue Diseases
Understanding Connective Tissue Diseases
When the body’s defense system turns against its own tissues.
What are Connective Tissue Diseases?
Connective tissue diseases (CTDs) are autoimmune disorders where the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own cells. This leads to inflammation and damage in skin, joints, blood vessels, and internal organs.
Three important CTDs in rheumatology are:
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE / "Lupus")
- Can affect joints, skin, kidneys, heart, lungs, and blood.
- Common features:
- Butterfly-shaped rash on the face
- Joint pain and swelling
- Sun sensitivity
- Hair loss, mouth ulcers
- Kidney involvement in severe cases
- Mostly affects young women, but can occur in anyone.
Sjögren’s Syndrome
- Primarily affects moisture-producing glands.
- Symptoms:
- Dry eyes (gritty or burning sensation)
- Dry mouth (difficulty swallowing, dental cavities)
- Fatigue and joint pain
- May occur alone or with other autoimmune diseases like RA or SLE.
Systemic Sclerosis (Scleroderma)
- Characterized by hardening and tightening of skin due to excess collagen.
- Symptoms:
- Raynaud’s phenomenon (color changes in fingers with cold exposure)
- Thick, shiny, or tight skin
- Joint stiffness
- Can involve lungs, kidneys, and digestive tract in severe cases
- Disease course can vary from mild to life-threatening.
Why Early Diagnosis Matters
- Prevents irreversible organ damage
- Helps control symptoms with the right medications
- Improves long-term quality of life
Living With Connective Tissue Diseases
- Regular rheumatology follow-up is essential
- Medications: immunosuppressants, biologics, steroids as needed
- Lifestyle: sun protection, gentle exercise, stress control, healthy diet
- Eye & dental care in Sjögren’s, organ monitoring in SLE & Scleroderma
Key Takeaway
Connective tissue diseases are complex, multi-system disorders, but with early recognition and modern therapies, patients can live healthy, active lives.
If you have persistent joint pain, unexplained rash, dryness, or skin changes, consult a rheumatologist for evaluation.
Awareness + Early care = Better outcomes.