Mixed connective tissue disease
MCTD
Autoimmune conditionAn overlap condition with features of lupus, scleroderma, and myositis, marked by high levels of an antibody called anti-U1 RNP.
For education only — this guide can't diagnose you. If these signs sound familiar, talk with a healthcare provider. Book a consult
What happens
It often starts with Raynaud's and puffy fingers, then joint pain, muscle inflammation, or skin changes. Over time some people's symptoms come to look more like one specific condition. Lung involvement, including high blood pressure in the lungs, is the most important complication to watch for.
Who gets it
Much more common in women, and usually diagnosed between 15 and 40.
Signs worth getting checked
- Fingers turning white or blue in the cold (Raynaud's)
- Swollen, puffy fingers
- Joint pain
- Muscle weakness or aches
- Fatigue and low-grade fevers
- Shortness of breath
- Heartburn or trouble swallowing
Labs to ask about
- ANA
- Anti-U1 RNP antibodies
- CK (muscle enzyme)
- Echocardiogram and lung function tests
- Complete blood count
Treatments your doctor may discuss
- Hydroxychloroquine
- Anti-inflammatories or low-dose steroids for flares
- Immune-suppressing medicines when organs are involved
- Treatment for Raynaud's
Supportive steps to discuss with your provider
- Keep your hands and core warm.
- Stop smoking. It narrows blood vessels further.
- Keep up regular heart and lung screening, even when you feel well.
See a doctor promptly if you have
- Shortness of breath or chest pain
- A finger sore that won't heal, or a fingertip turning dark
- Trouble swallowing
Related conditions
Ready to find the root cause?
Dr. Lesher is a Naturopathic Doctor who focuses on autoimmune and chronic conditions in women. Since 2020, she's helped hundreds of patients stop managing symptoms and start healing.