Mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD) is a medical
condition involving a mix of several autoimmune diseases. Patients typically
complain of Reynaud’s phenomenon, swollen fingers, joint pain, hardening skin,
pulmonary hypertension, difficulty in swallowing, and painful muscles. The
presence of U1 RNP and snRNP antibodies is diagnostic of this condition. Women
are affected more than men. The presence of pulmonary hypertension and other
symptoms related to the cardiovascular system indicate an adverse prognosis.
Most patients are managed with drugs to treat pain and
swelling, low dose steroids, and immune suppressing agents. Symptomatic
treatment is given for difficulty in swallowing and acid reflux. Patients with
pulmonary hypertension and interstitial lung disease as well as heart involvement
require special attention.
The Ayurvedic treatment of MCTD involves detoxification,
reduction of generalized inflammation, and special rejuvenation therapy for the
cardiovascular system and musculoskeletal system. Once the symptoms gradually
start subsiding, immune modulating herbs are introduced slowly. Special care is
required since most patients are already on steroid and immune suppressant
therapy. As inflammation decreases, the body gradually starts accepting immune
modulation and immune strengthening treatment.
Treatment is continued till all symptoms are completely in remission;
at this stage, modern medicines like steroids and immune suppressant drugs need
to be tapered off gradually. This stage is highly sensitive, since the patient
may experience an aggravation of symptoms for about 1-2 months. Counseling and encouragement needs to be
given to the patient at this stage to continue with the treatment. Once the
aggravation subsides, then further treatment can be given to treat any residual
symptoms and build up the immune system of the body so that it works to the
patient’s advantage.
Treatment is then gradually reduced in dosage and frequency
so that the patient can start living a life free of medication. Most patients
with MCTD, or for that matter, any autoimmune disease, require regular
treatment for a period of about 12 to 18 months for a complete remission of the
disease with complete cessation of all modern drugs. It is
important to educate the patient to adopt a healthy life style and healthy
eating habits, as well as avoid stress, so as to prevent a relapse of the
condition.
Ayurvedic herbal treatment thus has a specific role to play
in the successful management and treatment of MCTD.
