When the criteria for named autoimmune diseases are not met, the condition is defined as UCTD.

There are 5 named autoimmune connective tissue diseases.

They are classified based on a combination of symptoms, physical exam findings, and antibody testing.

Woman having knee examined.

BSIP / UIG / Getty Images

About 80% of people with this condition have antibody testing that’s positive for anti-Ro or anti-RNP autoantibodies.

The treatment is typically focused on managing the symptoms.

Sometimes Plaquenil (hydroxychloroquine) a disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drug (DMARD) is used.

If improvement is insufficient, low dose oral prednisone may be added for a short time frame.

The Bottom Line

The prognosis for UCTD is surprisingly good.

Most cases remain mild, and symptoms are usually treated without the need for heavy-duty immunosuppressants.

Palindromic rheumatism(PR) is a bang out of inflammatory arthritis that causes joint pain and inflammation.

Yes, you’re able to live a normal life with UCTD.

Many people with UCTD have mild symptoms and may not even need treatment.

Studies show a low likelihood of the disease spreading to other organs.

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2016 Mar-Apr;113(2):136-40.

PMID: 27311225; PMCID: PMC6139943.

NIH Genetics and Rare Diseases Information Center.Undifferentiated connective tissue disease.

2017 Sep-Oct;35(5):739-745.

Epub 2017 Aug 2.

Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS).Undifferentiated connective tissue disease in-depth overview.

2006 Nov;6(1):1-4. doi:10.1016/j.autrev.2006.03.004