Overview on Mixed Connective-Tissue Disease (MCTD)

Abstract

Most scholars regard mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD) to be a separate illness, whereas some suggest it might be a precursor to a distinct connective tissue disease, such as SLE, SSc, or overlap syndrome. There are no distinct clinical symptoms of MCTD, and clinical presentations vary greatly across individuals. Since the first description, the categorization as a distinct clinical entity has been debated, particularly because individuals with U1 small nuclear ribonucleoprotein particle (snRNP) may eventually match the diagnostic criteria of other 'specified' CTDs. Furthermore, not all investigations have corroborated Sharp's initial definition of MCTD as a benign illness with no organ involvement and a quick response to low-dose glucocorticoids. Mixed connective tissue disease is an uncommon illness with an unknown frequency. Raynaud's phenomenon, arthralgias, swollen joints, esophageal dysfunction, muscular weakness, and sausage-like fingers are the most prevalent clinical signs of mixed connective disease, along with the presence of anti-ribonucleoprotein antibodies. Although several sets of clinical criteria have been offered, there is no agreement on which is the most accurate.  MCTD frequently mimics various illnesses and can be readily misdiagnosed. However, many physicians like the Alarcon-Segovia and Villarreal criteria, owing to their simplicity and wide application. Here is little consensus on the initial or long-term therapy of MCTD, particularly the use of low-dose glucocorticoids, antimalarial, and immunosuppressive medications in varied clinical settings. In this article, we we’ll be looking at the disease epidemiology, assessment and treatment.