Collagen vascular disease

Collagen Vascular Disease is a term used to describe a group of diseases that affect the connective tissue. These diseases are characterized by inflammation and damage to the body's collagen, a protein that provides structure and strength to the body's tissues.

Overview

Collagen vascular diseases are autoimmune diseases in which the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues. This can lead to inflammation and damage in various parts of the body, including the skin, joints, and internal organs. The exact cause of collagen vascular diseases is unknown, but they are thought to involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

Types of Collagen Vascular Diseases

There are several types of collagen vascular diseases, including:

• Rheumatoid arthritis: This is a chronic inflammatory disorder that can affect more than just your joints. In some people, the condition can damage a wide variety of body systems, including the skin, eyes, lungs, heart and blood vessels.

• Systemic lupus erythematosus: Also known as lupus, this is a systemic autoimmune disease that occurs when your body's immune system attacks your own tissues and organs.

• Scleroderma: This is a group of rare diseases that involve the hardening and tightening of the skin and connective tissues.

• Dermatomyositis: This is an inflammatory disease marked by muscle weakness and a distinctive skin rash.

• Polyarteritis nodosa: This is a serious blood vessel disease. It occurs when certain immune cells attack the cells of blood vessel walls.

Symptoms

The symptoms of collagen vascular diseases can vary widely depending on the specific disease and the parts of the body that are affected. Common symptoms can include fatigue, joint pain and swelling, skin rashes, and fever. In severe cases, these diseases can lead to serious complications such as organ damage.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis of collagen vascular diseases typically involves a combination of physical examination, medical history, and laboratory tests. Treatment typically involves medications to reduce inflammation and suppress the immune system, as well as lifestyle changes to manage symptoms.

See Also

• Autoimmune disease
• Connective tissue disease
• Rheumatology