Understanding Connective Tissue Disorders: Symptoms, Treatments, and Sun Safety
Connective tissue is an essential component of the body, playing a crucial role in providing structural support for our organs, tissues and muscles. Collagen and elastin are key proteins that make up the connective tissues1. Disorders in connective tissue can affect various organ systems and often involve autoimmune reactions. Some common connective tissue diseases include rheumatoid arthritis, lupus erythematosus, dermatomyositis, and scleroderma. They can present with significant skin manifestations, making the expertise of dermatologists crucial in their diagnosis and management
Protecting from the sun is of paramount importance in connective tissue disorders due to the heightened photosensitivity (increased sensitivity of the skin to sunlight) often associated with these conditions. When someone is photosensitive, their skin reacts more strongly than usual to sunlight, which can result in redness, rash, or other adverse effects. Patients with connective tissue diseases can also have worsened internal disease with sun exposure. Therefore, practicing effective photoprotection is essential for managing connective tissue diseases.
Different Ways to Stay Photoprotected
- Sunscreen: Use broad-spectrum sunscreens with SPF>50 and reapply every 2 hours, or more frequently if swimming or sweating2.
- Sun Avoidance: Minimize outdoor activities during peak sunlight hours, typically from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m2.
- Sun- shielded: Wear hats, sunglasses, or clothing that act as a barrier to prevent direct sun exposure and reduce the risk of sun-related damage to the skin2.
Treatments for Connective Tissue Disorder
Depending on the type of connective tissue disorder, treatment may vary. Steroids, such as prednisone, can be used to rapidly reduce inflammation. Methotrexate and mycophenolate mofetil are two disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARD) that have been used for many connective tissue diseases for many years. Some conditions are treated with intravenous immunoglobulin, which requires treatment at a hospital unless a visiting nurse goes to your house. There are many other treatments that your doctor may consider, give alone or in combination, depending on your symptoms.
References
1. Connective Tissue Supports and Protects | Anatomy and Physiology I. Lumenlearning.com. Published 2024. Accessed March 25, 2024. https://courses.lumenlearning.com/suny-ap1/chapter/connective-tissue-supports-and-protects
2. Sunscreen. The Skin Cancer Foundation. (2023b, November 30). https://www.skincancer.org/skin-cancer-prevention/sun-protection/sunscreen/
