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Other Rheum Conditions

Understanding the Lupus and MCTD Connection

May 26, 2025 ·

Learn the key differences between lupus and MCTD, from Raynaud’s phenomenon to the RNP antibody, and why the distinction matters.

When you’re living with lupus, it can feel like every symptom and test is part of the same story. But what happens when new clues emerge, pointing toward a different diagnosis like Mixed Connective Tissue Disorder (MCTD)? Let’s break down the differences, key markers, and why it all matters for your care.

Read more: Understanding the Lupus and MCTD Connection

What Are Lupus and MCTD?

Lupus and MCTD are both systemic autoimmune diseases that cause inflammation throughout the body. They share overlapping symptoms like fatigue, joint pain, rashes, and even a positive ANA (antinuclear antibody) test.

MCTD, however, is what rheumatologists call an “overlap condition.” This means it combines features of lupus, scleroderma, and myositis, creating its own distinct condition. The trick is spotting the subtle differences that suggest it’s not “just lupus.”

Raynaud’s Phenomenon: A Clue to Look Deeper

Raynaud’s phenomenon—where fingers or toes turn white, blue, then red in response to cold or stress—is common in lupus. But when combined with other signs like skin tightening, it raises a red flag for MCTD.

Raynaud’s is also associated with scleroderma, a condition that’s part of the MCTD overlap. If you notice color changes in your fingers or toes, don’t dismiss it as “normal.” It might be a critical clue.

The Role of the RNP Antibody

If your doctor is digging deeper into an autoimmune diagnosis, they’ll often check your antibodies. One of the most important markers for MCTD is the RNP antibody, also called Sm/RNP or U1RNP.

A high RNP antibody level is like a neon sign pointing to MCTD. While lupus can sometimes present with this antibody, its strong presence should encourage doctors to evaluate for features of MCTD like muscle inflammation or fibrosis.

Muscle Inflammation and Skin Tightening

Symptoms like muscle weakness—difficulty combing your hair or climbing stairs—are more common in MCTD. This weakness stems from inflammation in the muscles, something not typically seen in lupus.

Skin tightening is another key difference. If you notice the skin around your fingers, hands, or forearms feels tighter or looks shiny, it’s worth mentioning. These changes point to the scleroderma component of MCTD and are rarely seen in lupus alone.

Why Diagnosis Matters

You might wonder: if the treatments for lupus and MCTD overlap, why does the distinction matter? The answer lies in the complications.

MCTD carries a higher risk of fibrosis—thickening and scarring—in the lungs or esophagus. These complications require different monitoring and treatment strategies than lupus. Knowing you have MCTD allows your doctor to anticipate and manage these risks early.

What Can You Do?

Autoimmune diseases are dynamic, and symptoms can evolve over time. If you’ve been diagnosed with lupus but notice new symptoms like Raynaud’s, muscle weakness, or skin tightening, don’t assume they’re part of the same story.

Discuss your concerns with your doctor and ask about the RNP antibody. It’s a small step that could lead to big insights into your health.

Dr. Elizabeth Ortiz, double board certified Rheumatologist

Sjogren’s Symptoms: A New Approach

May 5, 2025 ·

a different treatment approach is necessary when facing Sjogren's Disease

When people think of Sjogren’s disease, they usually picture dry eyes and dry mouth. While those are classic symptoms, Sjogren’s is so much more than just dryness. It’s a systemic autoimmune condition, meaning it can affect your entire body—even in ways that aren’t obvious in lab tests or physical exams.

Fatigue, brain fog, and chronic pain are some of the most frustrating symptoms for people with Sjogren’s. Yet, these symptoms often go unnoticed or unaddressed because they don’t fall into the traditional treatment plan. If this sounds like your experience, it’s time to take a fresh look at your care strategy.

[Read more…] about Sjogren’s Symptoms: A New Approach

Silent Signs of RA in Your Lungs

March 31, 2025 ·

understanding how RA can impact your lung

When most people think about rheumatoid arthritis (RA), they picture swollen joints, aching knees, and stiff fingers. But here’s the thing: RA isn’t just about your joints. It’s a systemic autoimmune disease that can quietly affect other parts of your body, including your lungs. Surprised? You’re not alone.

Up to 30% of people with RA develop lung complications like interstitial lung disease (ILD) or pleural disease. These conditions can often go unnoticed until symptoms like shortness of breath or a persistent cough become too big to ignore. Let’s break down what you need to know about these sneaky complications, how inflammation plays a role, and what steps you can take to protect your lungs.

[Read more…] about Silent Signs of RA in Your Lungs

How to Handle Unwanted Autoimmune Advice

February 17, 2025 ·

Handling everyone's advice regarding your autoimmune condition can take time and practice

When you’re diagnosed with an autoimmune disease, it feels like your world shifts overnight. You’ve got new doctors, new medications, and a long list of new symptoms to manage. But one of the most surprising parts of the whole journey? The flood of well-meaning, yet unsolicited, advice that starts pouring in. It’s like everyone you know suddenly becomes a health expert!

Dealing with this constant input can be tough, especially when you’re already navigating the complexities of your rheumatology care. But before you feel overwhelmed, let’s talk about how to sort through the noise and stay focused on what really matters—your health, your goals, and your well-being.

[Read more…] about How to Handle Unwanted Autoimmune Advice

Swallowing when you have Scleroderma

February 10, 2025 ·

Trouble swallowing with scleroderma can be a sign of esophageal problems

Living with scleroderma, or systemic sclerosis, means dealing with unexpected challenges that can impact your daily life. One of the less-talked-about areas is how scleroderma affects the mouth and esophagus, leading swallowing problems. While these symptoms might seem minor, they can have a significant impact on your quality of life and overall health. Let’s dive into what’s happening and how to manage it.

What is Scleroderma?

Scleroderma is an autoimmune disease that can affect many parts of the body, including the skin, joints, lungs, and even the digestive system. But unlike other autoimmune conditions that cause inflammation, scleroderma’s symptoms often result from fibrosis. Fibrosis means the buildup of scar tissue, which can cause the skin and tissues to harden.

[Read more…] about Swallowing when you have Scleroderma
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