Connective Tissue Diseases and Disorders Sourcebook

Connective tissues, comprised of proteins such as collagen and elastin, keep human body cells together, support organs, and aid in tissue healing. They are found all over the body and are subject to more than 200 disorders, some hereditary (such as Marfan syndrome), and most acquired (such as osteo- and rheumatoid arthritis and lupus). Connective tissue is also subject to malignant or benign tumors. This clear and helpful sourcebook collects and excerpts information from reliable sources—MedlinePlus, the CDC, NIH, and other national and professional institutes and organizations—to provide basic consumer health information on the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and, sometimes, prevention of connective tissue disorders. A special section covers living with a connective tissue disorder, including emotional dimensions, coping mechanisms for school and work, and advice about COVID vaccinations. Entries for most of the diseases end with suggestions for further reading, which is great, but they’re in the form of links, which may not be helpful for people using the book version of this title.