Connective tissue diseases

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Connective tissue diseases, also connective tissue disorders, are infrequently seen by pathologists.

They may be very important in the context of forensic pathology, as they may be an explanation for multiple fractures, which may be seen in child abuse.

Specific entities

Mixed connective tissue disease

  • Abbreviated MCTD.

General

Usually has some features of:[1]

Ehlers-Danlos syndrome

Marfan syndrome

Osteogenesis imperfecta

  • Abbreviated OI.

General

  • Rare.
  • Numerous subtypes - mild-to-severe symptoms/survival.
  • May be misdiagnosed as child abuse.[2]

Clinical:

  • +/-Blue sclerae.[3]
  • Multiple fractures.

General

  • Classic - tibial bowing (saber shins).[4]

Microscopic

Features:[4]

  • Abundant plump osteoblasts (infants only).
  • Paucity of bony matrix.
  • Premature calcification of osteoid.

Images:

See also

References

  1. URL: http://www.merckmanuals.com/home/bone_joint_and_muscle_disorders/autoimmune_disorders_of_connective_tissue/mixed_connective_tissue_disease_mctd.html. Accessed on: 18 February 2012.
  2. Singh Kocher, M.; Dichtel, L. (Nov 2011). "Osteogenesis imperfecta misdiagnosed as child abuse.". J Pediatr Orthop B 20 (6): 440-3. doi:10.1097/BPB.0b013e328347a2e1. PMID 21716141.
  3. Smith, R.; Francis, MJ.; Bauze, RJ. (Oct 1975). "Osteogenesis imperfecta. A clinical and biochemical study of a generalized connective tissue disorder.". Q J Med 44 (176): 555-73. PMID 1202551.
  4. 4.0 4.1 Milgram, JW.; Flick, MR.; Engh, CA. (Apr 1973). "Osteogenesis imperfecta. A histopathological case report.". J Bone Joint Surg Am 55 (3): 506-15. PMID 4703203.