Causes and risk factors
Exact cause of MCTD is not known. It is an autoimmune disease. In this disease in which body’s defence mechanism attacks itself. Antibodies are produced against fibres [U1 ribonucleoprotein -RNP] that provide support to the body. It is more common in women under age of 30 years.
Clinical presentation
MCTD presents with clinical features of SLE, scleroderma, and polymyositis. SLE symptoms include butterfly shaped rash on cheek and bridge of nose, purple discoloration of eyelids, spidery veins of face and hands, erythmatous patches on knuckles. Patient may also develop seizures, renal failure. Other prominent symptoms are generalised weakness, soreness in the muscles, fatigue, fever, exaggerated response to cold causing numbness, bluish discolouration of fingers or toes [raynaud phenomenon], hardening and tightness of skin, swollen hands, arthritis, and arthalgia. Gastrointestinal symptoms such as acid reflux, dyspepsia, oesophageal dysmotility are observed. Respiratory complaints like shortness of breath, cough, and pulmonary hypertension may be seen.
Investigation
Medical history by the patient and Clinical examination by the doctor helps in diagnosis. Routine blood tests, blood test for anti nuclear antibody [ANA] and anti U1 – RNP antibody are done to aid in diagnosis.
Treatment
Treatment depends upon the presenting symptoms. It involves corticosteroids and immunosuppressant drugs. Symptomatic treatment with NSAIDs and supportive care is given to prevent further complications.
Other Modes of treatment
The other modes of treatment can also be effective in treating MCTD. Homoeopathy is a science which deals with individualization considers a person in a holistic way. This science can be helpful in combating the symptoms. Similarly the ayurvedic system of medicine which uses herbal medicines and synthetic derivates are also found to be effective in treating MCTD .
