Connective Tissue Diseases

Connective tissues arthitis

Last Updated December 20th, 2021

What are the Connective Tissues?

There are several types of tissue in the human body and each kind has a specified function. The four main types are epithelial, muscular, connective and nervous tissues. The role of connective tissue, as the name suggests, is to bind, support and connect other tissues and organs together. It is the most abundant form of tissue in the body and can take many different forms. Examples of connective tissues include cartilage, adipose tissue (fat), blood and bone.

Connective tissues painOn a fundamental level, all connective tissue is composed of more or less the same mix of components. They are made up of a variety of living cells embedded in a matrix composed of non-living components including fibers and an amorphous ground substance. These three components come together to form the glue that provides the extracellular matrix for other tissues and organs. Typically, connective tissues consist of a far higher proportion of non-living substance than living cells.

The most common type of fiber is the tough proteinaceous collagen. Other types include elastic and reticular fibers. Ground substance performs the role of a medium facilitating the exchange of substances between the blood and various tissues. It can exist in liquid form (as in the plasma of blood), gelatinous (in areolar tissue), rubbery (in cartilage) or rigid form (as in bone).

 

What are Connective Tissue Diseases and What Forms Do They Take?

There are several disorders that can directly affect the various connective tissues of the body. Since connective tissues form the structural framework within our bodies, diseases affecting them will also have an impact on organs and other tissues associated with them. There can be difficulties relating to the muscles, skin, and joints as a result of connective tissue disease (CTD). Some of these diseases are hereditary. Others may be caused or triggered by infection, autoimmune disorders or injury. Yet others have no identifiable cause.

Hereditary Connective Tissue Disorders

This a group of disorders of the connective tissue that arise as a result of defective mutations in the genes. Because these genetic changes are inherited, the symptoms and signs of these disorders are most likely to manifest early on in life. Typically, they affect the way that connective tissues are formed and developed. An example is discussed below:

  • Marfan Syndrome: Fibrillin is a substance that imparts strength to connective tissue. An abnormality in the gene that codes for fibrillin is responsible for causing Marfan syndrome, a rare, hereditary CTD. As a result, the connective tissues are weakened to the extent that they become distorted under stress and may even rupture or tear. This adversely affects the bones, joints, muscles and internal organs such as the heart, eyes, lungs, brain and spinal cord. The stresses of pumping blood can cause the heart’s valves to weaken and become permanently distorted. This can lead to serious complications including fatality. The severity of symptoms is variable and they generally only become noticeable in adulthood. Individuals with Marfan syndrome tend to display certain peculiar physical characteristics such as arm span greater than their height, spidery fingers, deformed breastbone and spine, flat feet and unusually flexible joints. This is not a curable condition but advances in medical technology have helped improve life expectancy.

 

Autoimmune Connective Tissue Disease

Connective tissues arthitisIn some cases, the actual causes of connective tissue dysfunction are not well understood. However, it is believed that they are brought about by aberrant behavior of the immune system or autoimmune disorder. The function of the immune system is to target and destroy pathogens and toxic material. Sometimes, and often for unknown reasons, the immune system turns on the healthy cells and tissues of the body, causing them to become inflamed and damaged. It is believed that those with autoimmune disorders have a genetic predisposition to it.

  • Rheumatoid arthritis: This a chronic inflammatory disorder affecting the joints. It is one the most common CTDs. The synovial membrane lining the insides of joints becomes inflamed and thickened as a result of an autoimmune activity. This makes movement difficult and painful. Patients also experience severe fatigue. Over time, this can lead to permanent damage of the cartilages as well as deformity and failure of joints. This is a systemic disease that is also capable of adversely affecting the cardiovascular and respiratory systems. In some cases, this condition is known to be inherited.

 

Mixed Connective Tissue Disorders (MCTD)

CONNECTIVE TISSUESCertain cases are termed mixed CTDs because they display symptoms and laboratory findings confirming the simultaneous existence of multiple known CTDs. Usually, MCTD patients will exhibit overlapping characteristics of diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus, scleroderma, polymyositis and rheumatoid arthritis. The symptoms of these different diseases do not necessarily coexist all at once. They may manifest at different periods of life.

Typical early signs include swelling of the fingers, Raynaud’s phenomenon (the extremities become blue under cold conditions and turn red in response to heat), rashes and muscle and joint pains. In some cases, this remains a progressive condition despite treatment and can eventually cause fatal complications. Others may only experience mild symptoms throughout life.

 

Undifferentiated Connective Tissue Disease (UCTD)

This label is applicable to cases where patients have symptoms as well as laboratory results pointing to a recognized CTD although they may not present enough such characteristics to qualify for a formal diagnosis. This is not to be confused with mixed connective tissue diseases (MCTD). To make the distinction clear, MCTD patients typically exhibit sufficient symptoms and characteristics to qualify for a definitive diagnosis of two or more recognized CTDs.

UCTD usually presents mild symptoms and follows a slow course of progression. Most patients will never progress into more severe forms of CTD. The most commonly observed symptoms in such cases are joint pain, swollen joints, low-grade fever, hair loss, rashes on the face, reduced tear and saliva production, Raynaud’s phenomenon, photosensitivity and oral ulcers.

 

How is Connective Tissue Disease Diagnosed?

The specific process of diagnosis is dependent on the nature of symptoms displayed by the patient. However, certain basic diagnostic procedures include:

  • Physical examination and medical history
  • Blood tests
  • Urine tests
  • Imaging tests such as X-rays, ultrasounds and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
  • Tissue biopsy

 

Treatment and prevention

Mixed connective tissue disease

Treatment 

  • Medications to help prevent the immune system from attacking healthy cells are prescribed to those who have been diagnosed with mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD).
  • Medications to prevent flare-ups and suppress the symptoms of mild mixed connective tissue diseases are prescribed.
  • Those who have been diagnosed with Raynaud’s disease along with MCTD are prescribed calcium channel blocker to help relax the muscle lining in the blood vessels.
  • In the patient who has been diagnosed with other conditions such as lupus, for instance, are provided with immunosuppressant’s to reduce their symptoms.

Prevention 

Since this is an autoimmune disease, there are no sure shot prevention methods. There are certain lifestyle changes and risk factors that can delay the onset of this condition.

  • Reduce stress levels.
  • Do not indulge in smoking; this habit tends to restrict the blood flow, thereby aggravating the symptoms.
  • Keep your hands covered in cold temperatures.

Marfan syndrome 

Treatment 

  • Medications that help in controlling blood pressure are prescribed to those who have been diagnosed with this condition. This medication helps in inhibiting the aorta from enlarging and rupturing.
  • Medications to decrease the force with which the heart beats are prescribed to those who have been diagnosed with this condition.
  • Contact lenses or glasses will be prescribed to those who have a dislocated lens in their eyes, due to Marfan syndrome.
  • Surgery will be recommended if the aorta enlarges and is 2 inches. Here, surgeons may replace a part of the aorta with a synthetic tube. In some cases, the entire aorta is replaced.
  • A back brace will be prescribed for children who have been diagnosed with Marfan syndrome, to help them restore their posture. At times, surgery may be needed to correct their posture.
  • Surgical correction of the breastbone may be done.
  • In patients whose retina has been torn or become lose may be recommended to get a corrective surgery done.

Prevention

Since Marfan syndrome is a genetic condition, there are no sure shot ways to prevent it. There are certain risk facts and lifestyle changes that one can make to delay the onset of this condition.

  • Do not indulge in contact or competitive sports.
  • Do not smoke.
  • Do not consume alcohol.

Raynaud’s disease 

Treatment 

  • Medications to help relax the blood vessels in the body may be prescribed to those who have been diagnosed with this condition.
  • Medications to relax the blood vessels along with reducing the symptoms and treating skin ulcers can be prescribed to those who have been diagnosed with Raynaud’s disease.
  • A surgical procedure to strip the sympathetic nerves in the affected hands and feet is conducted. This procedure is called sympathectomy. This procedure helps in reducing the symptoms and flare-ups of this condition.
  • Injections of onabotulinumtoxin type A are prescribed to patients to help reduce their symptoms of Raynaud’s disease.

Prevention 

  • Avoid smoking.
  • Reduce stress.
  • Avoid any rapid temperature change.
  • Exercise regularly.
  • Take extra caution in cold temperatures.

 

Dos and Don'ts

Dos
  • Exercise regularly, doing so helps in supporting the joints and increases flexibility – in the case of joint pains.
  • Use a blanket to keep warm – in case of a fever.
  • Dry hair gently, using a rough towel and using force can damage your hair – in case of hair loss.
Don'ts
  • Ignore your body weight, maintaining a healthy body weight tends to put less pressure on the joints – in the case of joint pains.
  • Have a cold bath; doing so can aggravate the fever – in case of fever.
  • Use a bristled brush to style your hair, this tends to cause more breakage – in case of hair loss.

 

 

 

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Tart Cherry: The healthiest excuse for taking that second serving of pie Tart cherry has been traditionally used in delectable desserts such as pies. Recent studies have revealed that its…
GERD heartburn
Heartburn: What are the exact symptoms and the best home remedies? There are easy home remedies for heartburn, which not only acts as a first aid when you experience…
amylase test
Amylase Test Amylase test is done by checking the level of this protein in the blood sample and also in…
Rubella IgM test
Rubella IgM Test The Rubella IgM test is a blood test that is performed to diagnose the presence of the rubella…
antiHEV IgM test
Anti hepatitis E virus (Anti HEV) IgM Test Anti HEV IgM test determines the level of the IgM antibodies in the blood, The disease is often…
sodium blood test
Blood Sodium Test A blood sodium test measures the amount of sodium (an important electrolyte) in your body. It is also…
leptospira Igm test
Leptospira-IgM Test A Leptospira-IgM test is a blood test which is carried out to detect anti-Leptospira IgM antibody. Leptospirosis is…
blood ketone test
Blood Ketone (D3HB) Test The Blood Ketone Test measures and monitors the levels of ketone in the blood which is usually performed…
Hymenoplasty
Hymenoplasty Read on to find out all about hymenoplasty, the procedure, post-surgery care, the risks, and the benefits.
hidden benefits walking
9 benefits of walking we bet you didn’t know! Did you know walking can be the miracle pill for eternal youth? Everyone knows walking is good for…
Dragon Fruit – Blessing from Nature’s Basket Dragon fruit is packed with nutrients but low on calories. It is the dream food that can help…
xylitol gum
Xylitol : Is this the right sugar substitute for you? Discovered during World War 2 owing to sugar shortage, xylitol has become a common name in pharamaceutical industry.…
gallbladder diet tomato
Gallbladder surgery :Tips on post-operative care and diet What to eat post a gallbladder surgery? What are the key things to avoid if you had a…
How can berberine supplements help you live longer and healthier? Berberine is a turmeric look-alike herbal extract that is credited with numerous health benefits ranging from diabetes cure…
How to correctly perform nasal irrigation using a Neti Pot? Neti pot has been a part of Ayurveda since centuries. This ancient tool is extremely effective in treating…
Experts reveal the safest ways to perform an enema at home The idea of pushing some up your rectal area might make you queasy but an enema could actually…
Barium-enema
Barium Enema Barium enema is also known as colon x-ray. Here, the patient is asked to consume small amount of…
GGt test
GGT – Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase Test GGT or gammaglutamyl transferase test is a liver function test that is used to detect the extent of…
Bloodtestalbumin
Albumin Test Albumin test or blood serum test is a liver function test that measures the amount of the protein…
blood elements analysis
Blood Element Analysis Test A blood element analysis is a blood test performed to measure the level of toxic elements such as…
fructosamine test
Fructosamine Test A fructosamine test measures blood sugar glucose content. Fructosamine level can indicate blood sugar level in past 2-3…
anoscopy
Anoscopy Anoscopy is an invasive diagnostic procedure where a small device known as anoscope will be inserted in the…
Diabetes blood test
Diabetic Profile The diabetic profile is a set of tests used for testing and monitoring the various kinds of Diabetes…
oral hygiene tips
6 shocking consequences of bad oral hygiene (and how to avoid them) Did you know bad breath is not just turning off, but also harms your body in ways you…
avocado benefits
Avocado: 15 reasons why this fruit should be a staple in your diet Did you know that the word avocado literally means "testicles". Don't get grossed out as this power-packed fruit…
black seed oil benefits
Black Seed Oil: What secret benefits could it bestow on your health? Black seeds or nigella seeds are tiny packets of health brimming with amazing benefits. Find out why should…
Cayenne: The remarkable benefits of these red hot chili peppers These may make you rush for a glass of water, but cayenne pepper is actually a healthy additive…
Kava: Is it the healthy substitute for alcohol you have been waiting for? Native to the beautiful South Pacific islands, Kava is a famous beverage rooted in the local culture. It…
How seitan proved to be a blessing in disguise for vegans worldwide Can only meat-eaters enjoy delicious juicy steaks and burgers? With seitan, the best meat substitute available today,even vegans…
Mood swings
The real reasons for your mood swings and how to overcome them Are you prone to heated moods frequently? Do you also feel bouts of depressive feeling creeping up on…
glucose-tolerance
Oral Glucose Tolerance Test – GTT Glucose tolerance test (or Oral GTT) is used to detect the onset of diabetes or prediabetes conditions. It…
ASTtest-liver
AST- Aspartate Aminotransferase Test AST test is a blood test that is used to measure the level of a particular liver enzyme…
ANTIPHOSPHOLIPIDANTIBODY(APL)_IgG
Antiphospholipid (APL) antibody-IgG The Antiphospholipid Antibody testing is a blood test used to determine an autoimmune disorder called Antiphospholipid syndrome linked…
Strep throat pain
Anti-Streptolysin-O Test The ASO or Anti-Streptolysin-O is a blood test designed to check for the presence of streptococcus bacterial infection…
vdrl test syphilis
VDRL Test The VDRL test is a blood test that is used to diagnose sexually transmitted or venereal diseases, primarily…
malarial antigen test
Malaria Antigen Test A malaria antigen test is a rapid diagnostic test (RDT) that can detect malarial antigens (proteins) in your…
iron deficiency profile
Iron Deficiency Profile An iron deficiency profile is a battery of blood tests which are performed in order to determine the…
Hepatitis A virus infected liver
Hepatitis A Virus (HAV) Total Blood test to look for IgM antibodies to know if you are infected with Hepatitis A virus (HAV),…
stress depressed anxiety
Are you depressed or just stressed? Know when to see a doctor Why are some people more anxious than others? Is being depressed the same as feeling sad? Have you…
sugar toxic health
Sugar: 7 new shocking truths revealed about the sweet poison Can drinking soda bring you closer to death? Is sugar slowly poisoning you and your family? You would…
L-theanine attention
L-Theanine: Better sleep, higher focus, and many other benefits Did you know that L-theanine found in green tea can make you sleep better and be focused at…
High Fiber Diet – Fire up your fiber intake for these health benefits! Regular bowels, healthy detox, higher immunity, and guaranteed weight loss - a high fiber diet can bring all…
Agave nectar: The bitter truth about this sweetener revealed Agave nectar is considered to be sweeter than the normal table sugar and even contains higher amounts of…
gout diet purines
Gout Diet : Get relief from painful joints by eating these foods Are you a victim of this painful condition? Are medications providing only short relief? Find a list of…
DHEA wrinkles
DHEA: Now get unbelievable age defiance with this wonder hormone! DHEA is known popularly as the age-defying hormone. This supplement is widely used to slow down aging and…
Oil of Oregano: The one-stop essential oil you’ve been looking for Are you plagued by a weak immune system? High body inflammation accompanied by pain and infections? Why not…
How can Kegels help you overcome weak pelvic muscles & incontinence? Kegel exercises are pelvic floor strengthening exercises that can help you overcome incontinence issues that rise out of…
Pescatarian Diet 101: What are the inherent health advantages of this diet? People opt to become a pescatarian in order to enrich their bodies with the essential health benefits that…
What is the right way to take a pregnancy test? A pregnancy test is undertaken to determine if you have conceived. A home pregnancy test is the most…
Quinine: How gin and tonic came to be known as a potent health elixir The discovery of quinine-containing tree bark is sometimes considered the most serendipitous medical discovery of the 17th century.
Inhale oxygen, exhale worries: The top breathing exercises and how to perform them Performing the breathing exercise is like becoming mindful of how you breathe.  Here is a list of breathing…
hemoglobin variant analysis
Hemoglobin Variant Analysis Hemoglobin variant analysis is a blood test that is used to detect the presence of hemoglobin variants which…
cystatin C
Cystatin C Test Cystatin C is a specific single-chain protein that is found in body fluids and is a biomarker for…
piles fissure fistula
Allopathy vs homeopathy vs ayurveda treatment for piles, fissures, and fistula Read to know the best form of treatment among allopathy, homeopathy,or ayurveda for piles, fissures, and fistula

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