Undifferentiated connective tissue disease
Evidence: Unconfirmed
Names
UCTD
Undifferentiated connective tissue disease
Undifferentiated connective tissue syndrome
Description
Patients of undifferentiated connective tissue disease (UCTD) share some, but not all, symptoms with other connective tissue diseases, such as systemic lupus erythmatosus, systemic sclerosis, dermatomyositis, polymyositis, rheumatoid arthritis, Sjogren’s syndrome, and antiphospholipid syndrome. UCTD is diagnosed when a patient has a positive serum ANA test and shows stable symptoms for a minimum of 3 years. UCTD is distinct from the other above-mentioned diseases in that the condition remains stable over time without worsening. 30% of patients diagnosed with UCTD will be given a new diagnosis because their disease will not remain stable.
Patient Groups
None found.
Bloggers
None found.
Prevalence
US Incidence: [Spinillo 2017]
Typical Age of onset
Most commonly starts between age 30 and 50, but can start at any age [Source: Medscape]
Symptoms
Chest pain
Cold fingers/toes with white or blue skin coloring (Raynaud’s Phenomenon)
Dry eyes and mouth
Facial symmetric “butterfly” rash (malar rash)
Hair loss
Interstitial pneumonia
Joint pain (arthralgia)
Muscle weakness
Nervous system abnormalities (sensations, seizure, mental disorders)
Sensitivity to light (photosensitivity)
Ulcers in mouth
