Lupus Site - a guide for lupus patients and their families

Mixed Connective Tissue Disease resembles lupus, it has features of lupus, but also of scleroderma.

It is characterised by four main features -

Raynaud's Phenomenon - Fingers suddenly become cold & turn white, blue, & finally red when circulation returns. The Raynaud's Phenomenon in MCTD is more prominent than in lupus, and is reminiscent of scleroderma.

Prominent arthritis - In MCTD, arthritis is more like rheumatoid arthritis with swelling, especially in the fingers and the fingers become "sausage-like". Other joints may also be involved.

The absence (or rarity) of many general features of lupus, such as kidney disease.

A specific blood test - the anti-RNP - must be positive for a diagnosis of MCTD

There may also be inflammation of the muscles (myositis), with muscle weakness & pain.

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Treatment

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MCTD is treated with steroids (low-moderate doses), & some patients respond well to Methotrexate.