Mixed connective tissue disease

Abstract

MCTD is characterized by clinical features that overlap those of several of the classic rheumatic and connective tissue disorders. Although MCTD has been distinguished from them by the presence of antibodies to an RNP and by specific immunoregulatory T cell circuit abnormalities, its definitve placement among the classic disorders remains controversial. Several of its reputed differential clinical, radiographic, and prognostic features have been discussed in this article.