Characteristics and Disease Progression of Mixed Connective Tissue Disease and Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

Launched by UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI · Dec 19, 2007

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is focused on understanding two autoimmune diseases: Mixed Connective Tissue Disease (MCTD) and Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE). Both conditions occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks the body, leading to inflammation and damage in various areas, such as the joints, skin, and organs. The goal of this study is to learn more about the immune system's behavior, genetic factors, and how these diseases progress over time. This knowledge is crucial for developing better treatments, especially since these conditions mainly affect young women, particularly those from Black and Hispanic backgrounds, and there is currently no cure.

If you have been diagnosed with SLE, MCTD, or other related rheumatic diseases, you might be eligible to participate in this study. Participants can be of any gender and should be between the ages of 18 and 75. However, certain health issues or treatments, like recent changes in medications or being on high doses of corticosteroids, may prevent participation. Those who join the study can expect to contribute to important research that could lead to improved care for themselves and others with these conditions. If you're considering participating, it’s a great opportunity to help advance our understanding of these serious diseases.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Patients with known rheumatic diseases including systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, connective tissue disease, undifferentiated connective tissue disease
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Poor venous access, unstable medical problems or significant cardiopulmonary disease, anemia, leukopenia, thrombocytopenia, anticoagulation therapy, recent significant changes in medication or pregnacy. Patient cannot be taking large dose of corticosteroids (above 30mg per day) or cytotoxic drugs (cyclophosphamide, azathiprine, cyclosporine, methotrexate).