Mixed Connective Tissue Disease (MCTD) Treatment in Manhasset, NY
Serving Nassau County & Queens
What Is Mixed Connective Tissue Disease?
Mixed Connective Tissue Disease (MCTD) is an autoimmune condition that features overlapping characteristics of several connective tissue diseases, including:
Because symptoms overlap multiple autoimmune disorders, diagnosis requires careful evaluation by a rheumatologist.
MCTD can range from mild to more complex systemic involvement.
Symptoms of Mixed Connective Tissue Disease
Symptoms vary from person to person but may include:
- Joint pain or swelling
- Muscle weakness
- Fatigue
- Raynaud’s phenomenon (fingers turning white or blue in the cold)
- Swelling of the hands
- Shortness of breath
- Skin rashes
Some patients experience gradual symptom development over time.
How Is MCTD Diagnosed?
Diagnosis includes:
- Detailed medical history and physical examination
- Blood testing for specific autoantibodies
- Inflammatory markers
- Assessment for organ involvement (lungs, heart, kidneys)
- Ongoing monitoring to observe disease evolution
Because MCTD overlaps with other autoimmune diseases, expert evaluation is essential.
Treatment for Mixed Connective Tissue Disease
Treatment depends on symptom severity and organ involvement.
Options may include:
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Immunomodulatory therapy
- Steroid treatment when necessary
- Targeted biologic therapies in selected cases
- Close monitoring of lung and cardiovascular health
Early and appropriate treatment improves long-term outcomes.
When Should You See a Rheumatologist?
You should seek evaluation if you:
- Have positive autoimmune blood tests without a clear diagnosis
- Experience overlapping symptoms of lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, or muscle inflammation
- Have persistent Raynaud’s phenomenon with joint or muscle symptoms
- Have unexplained systemic inflammatory symptoms
Accurate diagnosis helps guide appropriate monitoring and treatment.
Comprehensive Autoimmune Care
At Manhasset Rheumatology, we provide specialized evaluation and management of connective tissue diseases for patients throughout Nassau County and Queens.
As a small, two-physician private practice, we offer individualized, one-on-one care and continuity at every visit.
Both physicians are consultants at St. Francis Hospital and participate in clinical research and trials, ensuring coordinated and up-to-date care for complex autoimmune conditions.
Schedule an Appointment
If you have been diagnosed with mixed connective tissue disease or are experiencing concerning symptoms, contact our office in Manhasset to schedule an evaluation.
📞 516-365-1700
📧 manhassetrheum@gmail.com
We proudly serve patients in Nassau County and Queens.
