Connective tissue holds the cells of a body together and allows tissue stretching. These tissues are made of proteins called collagen and elastin. While collagen is found in tendons, ligaments, cartilage, bone, and blood vessels, elastin is a stretchy protein that is the major component of ligaments and skin. So when there's an inflammation in collagen and elastin, the cause is connective tissue disease. However, it's a broad term to address different disorders that can affect skin, fat, muscle, joints, tendons, ligaments, bone, cartilage, and even the eye, blood, and blood vessels.
Types of Connective Tissue Disease
There are more than 200 different types of connective tissue disease further classified into two major types. The first category is genetic caused by a single gene effect or mutation. The second category is an autoimmune disorder in which the connective tissue becomes the target of antibodies directed against it.
Connective tissue disease caused by inherited factors
- Marfan Syndrome
- Osteogenesis Imperfecta
- Epidermolysis Bullosa
- Ehlers- Danlos Syndrome
Connective tissue disease caused by other factors
- Vasculitis
- Scleroderma
- Dermatomyositis
- Polymyositis
- Sjogren's syndrome
Causes
The causes of connective tissues can be either genetic, temperamental or external. The common causes for non inherited connective tissue diseases include:
- Exposure to UV light
- Infection
- Lack of vitamin D and vitamin C
- Exposure to toxic chemicals
Symptoms
As mentioned, there are more than 200 types of connective tissue disease. Thus, symptoms also vary from person to person and usually depend on the type of disease. Hence, symptoms tend to depend on the body part affected by the disease. These include:
- Bones density loss
- Joint pain
- Skin problems
- respiratory problems
Diagnosis
There are multiple types of tests done to diagnose connective tissue disease. After examining physically, the doctor may order the following tests to assess the cause or to rule out other diseases:
- X-Ray or MRI
- Tissue Biopsy
- Blood and Urine Test
- Test for dry eyes or dry mouth
- Test for antibodies
Treatment
After the diagnosis, the doctor can treat the patient with a single treatment or recommend different medications. Most probably, the treatment will include vitamin supplements, physical therapy, and medications. However, doctors will recommend regular tests to check the prognosis and continuously monitor the situation.
Prevention
To prevent connective tissue disease, you first have to identify the causes. As mentioned, connective tissue diseases are either caused by genetics or by external factors. However, non-inherited connective tissue diseases can be prevented with some lifestyle changes. Consuming a balanced diet and meeting nutrient needs would also help to prevent connective tissue diseases. Hence, you should consult an expert to identify the best preventive methods and mitigate the risks of these diseases.
Why Eternal Hospital?
At Eternal Hospital, we have a highly qualified and dedicated team of urologists who are always committed to providing the latest and most advanced medical care to all our patients. Being a trusted name in healthcare, we act compassionately while ensuring confidentiality to those who need it. We have set high standards in patient-centric premium care and outstanding patient safety, and exceptional maintenance in a timely manner. In addition, we adhere to the use of up-to-the-minute innovations to offer state-of-the-art treatments to our patients with unparalleled results.
