Main description:

A multifactorial condition associated with a complex genetic predisposition and various, poorly understood, environmental triggers that induce immune responses directed against components of the person's own body. Appropriate investigations are critical to correct diagnosis in order to tailor management. Multidisciplinary care is important and should involve the full range of allied health professionals .The majority of cases are cared for long term by dermatologists, rheumatologists, and/or nephrologists, as it is the skin, joints and kidneys that are most often involved.

Contents:

1. General Assessment of Patients with Suspected Connective Tissue Disease (CTD) - History-taking and the assessment of symptoms - Examination for signs of CTD - Investigations in a patient with suspected CTD 2. Systemic Lupus Erythematosus - Definition and pathology - Epidemiology - Presentation of systemic lupus - Diagnosis and differential diagnosis - Monitoring disease activity and distinguishing damage - Principles of management of systemic lupus erythematosus 3. Sjogren's Syndrome - Definition, pathology, and epidemiology - Clinical manifestations and assessment - Classification - Diagnosis and differential diagnosis - Management of Sjogren's syndrome