Collagen vascular disease occurs when problems with the immune system affect collagen.

Collagen is a tough, fiber-like protein that makes up 30% of body protein. It contributes to the structure of tendons, bones, and connective tissues.

In a class of diseases known as autoimmune disorders, the body's immune system attacks its own tissues. Some of these diseases have similarities, including arthritis and inflammation of arteries in the tissues that connect joints and other tissues. These diseases are known as collagen vascular diseases.

Collagen vascular diseases include:

• Ankylosing spondylitis
• Dermatomyositis
• Polyarteritis nodosa
• Psoriatic arthritis
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Scleroderma
• Systemic lupus erythematosus

Images

Dermatomyositis, Gottron's papule

Dermatomyositis on the legs

Dermatomyositis, heliotrope eyelids

Systemic lupus erythematosus rash on the face

Dermatomyositis, Gottron's papule

Polyarteritis, microscopic on the shin

Review Date: 02/09/2011
Reviewed By: Michael E. Makover, MD, professor and attending in Rheumatology at the New York University Medical Center, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org)