How does mixed connective tissue disease develop?
The connective tissues are the structural elements that hold the cells of the body together. These tissues form a framework or matrix for the body. The connective tissues are composed of two major structural molecules: collagen and elastin. Connective tissue diseases feature abnormalities involving the collagen and elastin and are often characterized by a variety of immune abnormalities. Lab tests show that most patients diagnosed with MCTD have high levels of anti-nuclear antibodies as well as antibodies to ribonucleoprotein (anti-RNP). Because mixed connective tissue disease is up to 15 times more common among women than men, some theorize that the condition is related to hormones. What are the symptoms of mixed connective tissue disease? Typically, symptoms of MCTD mimic symptoms of other rheumatoid diseases and can vary from person to person. Early symptoms can be subtle and are sometimes disregarded until the disease progresses. Initial symptoms often include Raynaud’s phenomenon
