Diagnosis and Treatment of Connective Tissue Diseases: A Clinician's Perspective: 2nd Edition

Dear Colleagues,

We are excited to announce the launch of the second edition of our Special Issue titled “Diagnosis and Treatment of Connective Tissue Diseases: A Clinician's Perspective”. We invite you to visit our website to access the first volume of this Special Issue, available at https://www.mdpi.com/journal/jcm/special_issues/CD9TL006V9.

Connective tissue diseases (CTDs) encompass a diverse group of autoimmune diseases, including systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), scleroderma, dermatomyositis, and rarer overlap syndromes. Despite different clinical symptoms, these entities share common pathogenetic mechanisms rooted in abnormal immune responses. Each connective tissue disease manifests through a wide spectrum of symptoms, from the mild involvement of a single system to severe complications affecting multiple organs.

The clinical presentation of CTD is very diverse, making diagnosis challenging. Initial symptoms often include fatigue, joint pain, and skin lesions. Diagnosis is based on a combination of clinical criteria, laboratory tests, and imaging studies. Treatment strategies are designed to manage symptoms and modify the underlying immune dysregulation. The basis of therapy comprises immunosuppressive drugs, corticosteroids, and disease-modifying drugs. Moreover, early intervention and a personalized approach are key in optimizing outcomes.

This picture of the common pathogenesis and distinct clinical profiles of CTD highlights the need for tailored diagnostic and therapeutic strategies. Research is ongoing, with the aim of understanding the complexity of these diseases, identifying new therapeutic options, and improving comprehensive patient care.

The objective of this Special Issue is to offer a comprehensive overview of our evolving understanding of the clinical characteristics and prolonged consequences associated with connective tissue diseases. Contributions will explore disease phenotypes, therapeutic approaches, and biomarkers, aiming to provide an in-depth overview of diverse aspects within the realm of connective tissue diseases.

Prof. Dr. Agnieszka Żebrowska
Prof. Dr. Adam Reich
Prof. Dr. Aleksandra Dańczak-Pazdrowska
Guest Editors

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