Types of Connective Tissue Disorders
There are several types of connective tissue disorders, including:
- Rheumatoid arthritis (RA)
- Scleroderma
- Lupus
- Churg-Strauss syndrome
- Granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA
- Microscopic polyangiitis
- Polymyositis/dermatomyositis
- Marfan syndrome
What Are the Symptoms of a Connective Tissue Disorder?
The symptoms of a connective tissue disorder can vary depending on the area of the body affected. The most serious symptoms are related to inflammation around the lungs, such as:
- Difficulty breathing
- Shortness of breath
- A cough that produces bloody phlegm
- Chest pain
- Respiratory failure
- Unexplained fatigue
The symptoms of a connective tissue disorder that does not affect the lungs can include:
- Swollen fingers
- White fingertips
- Numbness in the fingertips
- Muscle weakness
- Joint pain or weakness
How Are Connective Tissue Disorders Diagnosed?
If a connective tissue disorder is suspected, a physician will typically begin the diagnostic process by taking the patient’s medical history and performing a neurological examination. Because connective tissue disorders can produce symptoms similar to those of other conditions, the physician may order one or more diagnostic tests to help rule out other causes and confirm a diagnosis.
Some options include:
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans of the brain and spinal cord
- A lumbar puncture (spinal tap)
- Chest X-rays
- An electromyogram
- A muscle biopsy
How Are Connective Tissue Disorders Treated?
The optimal treatment approach can vary depending on the type of connective tissue disorder diagnosed and other factors. Some patients benefit from pain management strategies, while corticosteroids can be used to reduce inflammation for a short period or indefinitely.
Some connective tissue disorders can affect a patient’s daily life. Physical or occupational therapy can help a patient manage the symptoms by making adjustments in his or her home or work environment. A walking aid such as a brace can also be helpful.
Tampa General Hospital offers world-class care for patients with connective tissue disorders and other neurological conditions.