Multiple sclerosis(MS) andconnective tissue diseases(CTD) areautoimmune diseasesthat share many of the same symptoms.
The similarities between these conditions can prolong and complicate the diagnostic process.
Demyelination is less likely to be found in other autoimmune and connective tissue diseases.
kali9 / Getty Images
For example, symptoms that affect the heart and blood vessels can affect the pulmonary system.
However, in some cases, many body systems may become involved.
Mixed connective tissue disease(MCTD) is a rare key in of autoimmune disease.
Computed tomography(CT) scans may also help rule out other neurological conditions and help to diagnose MS.
However, CT images provide less clarity than MRIs.
However, they cannot alone provide a diagnosis.
Many types of connective tissue diseases require their own diagnostic testing methods.
Symptoms of MS may include:
There is a wide range of symptoms for connective tissue diseases.
Some people with a connective tissue disease experience subtle signs of the disease many years before being diagnosed.
Some early symptoms may include:
Is There a Cure for MS?
Unfortunately, there is no cure for MS at this time.
However, effective treatment options are available to manage symptoms and delay disease progression.
Summary
Multiple sclerosis (MS) and connective tissue diseases are autoimmune diseases that can share symptoms.
MS affects the body’s central nervous system (CNS), due to damage to the myelin sheath.
Connective tissue diseases are brought on by inflammation of the connective tissues throughout the body.
However, it can be in some cases.
A Word From Verywell
Receiving a diagnosis for an autoimmune disease can be frightening.
They will gather all past medical history information along with a physical and neurological examination.
MS is a connective tissue disease affecting the body’s central nervous system (CNS).
This damage slows or stops nerve signals from sending information from the CNS to the rest of the body.
2017;76(Suppl 2):588-588. doi:10.1136/annrheumdis-2017-eular.6438
MedlinePlus.Connective tissue disorders.
National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences.Mixed connective tissue disease.
Cedars Sinai.Connective tissue disorders.
MedlinePlus.Antinuclear antibody test (ANA).
Arthritis Society.Mixed connective tissue disease.
