What are the common gastrointestinal manifestations of Mixed Connective Tissue Disease?
The most common GI manifestations are similar to those of scleroderma: upper and lower esophageal sphincter hypotension with gastroesophageal reflux leading to heartburn/dyspepsia (60%–70%), esophageal dysmotility, and/or stricture with dysphagia (40%). Esophageal function is abnormal in up to 85% patients, although it may be asymptomatic. Small bowel and colonic disease is less common in MCTD than in scleroderma. Other less common GI complications include intestinal vasculitis, acute pancreatitis, and chronic active hepatitis.
