Abstract
Abstract
Undifferentiated connective tissue disease (UCTD) and mixed connective tissue diseases (MCTD) include a spectrum of rheumatological signs and symptoms which overlap with traditional connective tissue diseases including systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), systemic sclerosis (SSc) and dermatomyositis (DM) (the reader is directed to relevant chapters for discussion of SLE, DM and SSc). Describing the clinical features associated with UCTD and MCTD is inherently challenging due to the difficulties classifying overlap disorders precisely and the variable nomenclature in the literature. Despite this challenge the dermatologist has a key role in early recognition and diagnosis of affected patients. While the majority of rheumatological disease management focuses on controlling or reducing joint symptoms, several conditions have cutaneous features which may indicate active disease, impact on morbidity and negatively affect quality of life. In addition to UCTD and MCTD other rheumatic diseases which have significant cutaneous features include: rheumatoid arthritis, Sjogren syndrome, Still syndrome and rheumatic fever. This chapter provides an overview to these conditions with specific reference to cutaneous features. Appreciating the spectrum of dermatological manifestations associated with rheumatological disease and how these impact on the individual patient is important to promoting holistic, patient‐centred care. Close collaboration between dermatologists and rheumatologists is an essential prerequisite in supporting effective diagnosis and treatment of this complex cohort of patients.