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Clinical and Experimental Medicine
Published in: Clinical and Experimental Medicine 2/2020

Open Access 01-05-2020 | Mixed Connective Tissue Disease | Review Article

“Mixed connective tissue disease”: a condition in search of an identity

Authors: Marta R. Alves, David A. Isenberg

Published in: Clinical and Experimental Medicine | Issue 2/2020

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Abstract

Mixed connective tissue disease was first described as a new autoimmune rheumatic disease in 1972 based on the claim of a distinct clinical picture associated with anti-RNP antibody positivity. Subsequently, this new entity has divided opinions in the rheumatology community. We have reviewed recent cohort studies with more than 100 patients, comparing the clinical and immunological features, treatment, prognosis and evolution to well-defined autoimmune rheumatic diseases. We also reviewed clinical features of undifferentiated autoimmune rheumatic diseases based on the most recent studies. After gathering and reviewing these data, we discuss whether the designation “mixed connective tissue disease” should be maintained.
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Metadata
Title
“Mixed connective tissue disease”: a condition in search of an identity
Authors
Marta R. Alves
David A. Isenberg
Publication date
01-05-2020
Publisher
Springer International Publishing
Published in
Clinical and Experimental Medicine / Issue 2/2020
Print ISSN: 1591-8890
Electronic ISSN: 1591-9528
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s10238-020-00606-7

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