Diagnosis of inflammatory connective tissue diseases

It can be difficult to definitively diagnose an inflammatory connective tissue disease in the early phase. Prompt diagnosis is crucial to avoid delays in initiating disease-modifying therapy to prevent irreversible organ damage. Urgently refer anyone with a suspected inflammatory connective tissue disease to a specialist. Rheumatologists often have fast-track triage systems for these people and strongly encourage direct contact by general practitioners to expedite referral or to obtain advice on treatment (eg before starting oral corticosteroids). The appropriate time frame for referral is further influenced by the results of specific investigations.

The diagnosis of an inflammatory connective tissue disease is largely clinical—see below for clinical features of inflammatory connective tissue diseases. The clinical diagnosis may be supported by results of specific investigations for inflammatory connective tissue diseases, for example, the presence of autoantibodies and systemic inflammation.