What are common connective tissue disorders?

Connective tissue diseases include autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, scleroderma and lupus.

Are connective tissue disorders autoimmune?

Connective tissue disease is a group of autoimmune conditions marked by inflammation of the muscle fascias, ligaments and skin. Connective tissue diseases are actually a group of medical diseases.

Where is connective tissue found in the body?

It develops from the mesoderm. Connective tissue is found in between other tissues everywhere in the body, including the nervous system. In the central nervous system, the three outer membranes (the meninges) that envelop the brain and spinal cord are composed of connective tissue.

Which is the most general connective tissue found in the body?

Collagen: Collagen fibers are the strongest and most abundant of all the connective tissue fibers. Collagen fibers are fibrous proteins and are secreted into the extracellular space and they provide high tensile strength to the matrix.

Where is loose adipose connective tissue found?

Adipose tissue is primarily located beneath the skin, but is also found around internal organs. In the integumentary system, which includes the skin, it accumulates in the deepest level, the subcutaneous layer, providing insulation from heat and cold.

Where can I find information on connective tissue disorders?

The primary NIH organization for research on Connective Tissue Disorders is the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. MedlinePlus links to health information from the National Institutes of Health and other federal government agencies.

What are diseases that affect connective tissue in the body?

Your body is held together by tissues that connect all of the structures in your body. When you have a connective tissue disease, these connecting structures are negatively affected. Connective tissue diseases include autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, scleroderma and lupus.

What are the three types of mixed connective tissue disease?

Mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD) is a rare autoimmune disorder that is characterized by features commonly seen in three different connective tissue disorders: systemic lupus erythematosus, scleroderma, and polymyositis.

Is there a registry for mixed connective tissue disease?

The Autoimmune Registry supports research for Mixed connective tissue disease by collecting information about patients with this and other autoimmune diseases. You can join the registry to share your information with researchers and receive updates about participating in new research studies. Learn more about registries.