Clinical Profile Of Cutaneous Manifestations In Various Autoimmune Connective Tissue Diseases

Abstract

Background: Autoimmune Connective Tissue Diseases (AICTDs) are a heterogeneous group of autoimmune disorders having overlapping clinical features. Skin is often involved and it may be the earliest sign of the systemic disease. Aims: This study highlights the various cutaneous manifestations of common AICTDs. Material and Methods: A hospital-based cross-sectional study was carried out for a period of two years on 120 patients of AICTDs in dermatology OPD/ward at tertiary care hospital. Detailed history taking, examination and relevant laboratory tests were performed. Results: Majority of the patients had lupus erythematosus (LE) (41.67%) followed by, mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD) (28.33%), systemic sclerosis (SSc) (12.5%) and morphea (10.83%). Overall, the most common presentation was photosensitivity (39.16%) followed by raynaud’s phenomenon (33.33%), oral lesions (29.16%), hide bound skin (29.16%), discoid rash (29.16%) and malar rash (25.83%). Among LE patients, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) (18.33%) was the commonest variant and malar rash (77.27%) and photosensitivity (77.27%) were the commonest presentations. Hide bound skin, microstomia and sclerodactyly were seen in most patients of systemic sclerosis (SSc). Antinuclear antibodies were positive in 100% excluding morphea, DLE and DDLE patients. Anti-dsDNA and anti-Sm antibodies were positive in 68.18% and 40.9% of SLE patients, anti-Scl 70 antibody was positive in 53.33% of SSc patients. Conclusion: A deep thorough understanding of cutaneous manifestations of AICTDs is necessary for early diagnosis and efficient management, hence better prognosis. [Bhindora P Natl J Integr Res Med, 2023; 14(2): 08-15, Published on Dated: 15/03/2023]