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Disease Profile
Undifferentiated connective tissue disease
Prevalence estimates on Rare Medical Network websites are calculated based on data available from numerous sources, including US and European government statistics, the NIH, Orphanet, and published epidemiologic studies. Rare disease population data is recognized to be highly variable, and based on a wide variety of source data and methodologies, so the prevalence data on this site should be assumed to be estimated and cannot be considered to be absolutely correct.
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Age of onset
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ICD-10
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Inheritance
Autosomal dominant A pathogenic variant in only one gene copy in each cell is sufficient to cause an autosomal dominant disease.
Autosomal recessive Pathogenic variants in both copies of each gene of the chromosome are needed to cause an autosomal recessive disease and observe the mutant phenotype.
X-linked
dominant X-linked dominant inheritance, sometimes referred to as X-linked dominance, is a mode of genetic inheritance by which a dominant gene is carried on the X chromosome.
dominant X-linked dominant inheritance, sometimes referred to as X-linked dominance, is a mode of genetic inheritance by which a dominant gene is carried on the X chromosome.
X-linked
recessive Pathogenic variants in both copies of a gene on the X chromosome cause an X-linked recessive disorder.
recessive Pathogenic variants in both copies of a gene on the X chromosome cause an X-linked recessive disorder.
Mitochondrial or multigenic Mitochondrial genetic disorders can be caused by changes (mutations) in either the mitochondrial DNA or nuclear DNA that lead to dysfunction of the mitochondria and inadequate production of energy.
Multigenic or multifactor Inheritance involving many factors, of which at least one is genetic but none is of overwhelming importance, as in the causation of a disease by multiple genetic and environmental factors.
Not applicable
Other names (AKA)
Undifferentiated connective tissue syndrome; UCTD
Summary
Undifferentiated
The underlying cause of UCTD is unknown, but it is a type of autoimmune disease, which means that the
Symptoms
More common signs and symptoms include:[1][2]
- Raynaud phenomenon (a condition in which the blood vessels do not bring enough blood to the hands and feet)
- joint pain (arthralgia)
arthritis - symptoms involving the mucous membranes such as dryness in the eyes and mouth, or ulcers in the mouth
- symptoms involving the skin, such as sensitivity to sunlight (photosensitivity), a rash on the cheeks (malar rash), or hair loss (alopecia)
- fever
Many other signs and symptoms are possible and often overlap with those of well-defined connective
- other symptoms involving the mucous membranes or skin
- inflammation in the lungs and chest cavity, causing chest pain when breathing (pleuritic chest pain)
- inflammation of tissues that surround the heart (pericarditis), which also causes chest pain
- muscle weakness
- nervous system symptoms such as abnormal sensations,
seizures , or mental disorders - decreased number of
white blood cells (leukopenia),red blood cells (anemia ) orplatelets (thrombocytopenia )
Cause
Treatment
A variety of other types of medications may be considered on an individual basis, such as calcium channel blockers for symptoms of Raynaud phenomenon. People with Raynaud phenomenon should also avoid exposure to very cold temperatures. Those with increased sensitivity to sunlight (photosensitivity) should try to minimize being exposed to sunlight for long periods of time. Wearing protective clothing and sunblock also helps protect against the effects of ultraviolet light.[1]
Organizations
Support and advocacy groups can help you connect with other patients and families, and they can provide valuable services. Many develop patient-centered information and are the driving force behind research for better treatments and possible cures. They can direct you to research, resources, and services. Many organizations also have experts who serve as medical advisors or provide lists of doctors/clinics. Visit the group’s website or contact them to learn about the services they offer. Inclusion on this list is not an endorsement by GARD.
Organizations Supporting this Disease
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Arthritis Foundation
1355 Peachtree St. NE
6th Floor
Atlanta, GA 30309
Toll-free: 1-844-571-HELP (4357)
Telephone: +1-404-872-7100
Website: https://www.arthritis.org -
Lupus Foundation of America
2121 K Street, N.W.
Suite 200
Washington, DC 20037
Toll-free: 1-800-558-0121
Telephone: +1-202-349-1155
Fax: +1-202-349-1156
E-mail: info@lupus.org
Website: https://www.lupus.org/ -
Scleroderma Foundation
300 Rosewood Drive, Suite 105
Danvers, MA 01923
Toll-free: 1-800-722-4673 (HOPE)
Telephone: +1-978-463-5843
Fax: +1-978-463-5809
E-mail: sfinfo@scleroderma.org
Website: https://www.scleroderma.org
Organizations Providing General Support
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American Autoimmune Related Diseases Association (AARDA)
19176 Hall Road, Suite 130
Clinton Township, MI 48038
Toll-free: 800-598-4668
Telephone: 586-776-3900
Fax: 586-776-3903
E-mail: aarda@aarda.org
Website: https://www.aarda.org/
Learn more
These resources provide more information about this condition or associated symptoms. The in-depth resources contain medical and scientific language that may be hard to understand. You may want to review these resources with a medical professional.
In-Depth Information
- Medscape Reference provides information on this topic. You may need to register to view the medical textbook, but registration is free.
- Orphanet is a European reference portal for information on rare diseases and orphan drugs. Access to this database is free of charge.
References
- Hildebrand, B. Undifferentiated Connective-Tissue Disease. Medscape Reference. Medscape; January 24, 2018; https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/334482-overview.
- Berman JR. Undifferentiated Connective Tissue Disease In-Depth Overview. Hospital for Special Surgery. July 5, 2017; https://www.hss.edu/conditions_undifferentiated-connective-tissue-disease-overview.asp.
- Bortoluzzi A, Furini F, Campanaro F, Govoni M. Application of SLICC classification criteria in undifferentiated connective tissue disease and evolution in systemic lupus erythematosus: analysis of a large monocentric cohort with a long-term follow-up. Lupus. October 4, 2016; https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27703051.
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