Mctd?

Posted by Deedee @deedee4, 1 day ago

I was diagnosed with mctd Sept of 2024 and they prescribed hydroxychloroquine which really didn’t help. I went to get a second opinion in May this year and that rheumatologist retested labs and she didn’t think I had mctd and I haven’t been able to get in to see and talk to her again about this and why I would have it and then 8 months later not have it, as my brain fog : fatigue remain. Any suggestions? Try another rheumatologist?? The first rheumatologist did not think that mctd could cause that much brain fog. (Of note, I also had breast implants removed early March- saline for 23 years, but breast implant illness is not understood or recognized as a medical diagnosis by the medical community. I’ve also had extensive work up with everything basically normal except for frontal lobe atrophy noted by one neurologist but deemed normal by another neurologist.. )

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dlydailyhope | @dlydailyhope | 1 day ago

@deedee4
How long have you had your symptoms? I also had saline implants removed (2023) due to breast implant illness symptoms. Have you noticed any improvement of symptoms since removal?

Have you had your thyroid and iron panels fully looked at? Have you seen an endocrinologist for an evaluation of hormones?

Did you have Covid or ever have Epstein Barr or Lyme disease testing?

I would want to further explore the frontal lobe issue. There could be more to evaluate. Here is what I learned about the causes of atrophy.

Frontal lobe atrophy refers to the shrinkage or loss of neurons in the frontal lobes of the brain, which can lead to various cognitive and behavioral changes. Several factors can contribute to this condition:

Neurodegenerative Diseases

Alzheimer's Disease: This common form of dementia often affects the frontal lobes, leading to atrophy.
Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD): Specifically targets the frontal and temporal lobes, causing significant atrophy.
Parkinson's Disease: Can also lead to changes in the frontal lobes over time.

Vascular Issues

Stroke: Reduced blood flow to the frontal lobes can cause damage and subsequent atrophy.
Chronic Ischemia: Long-term reduced blood supply can lead to gradual atrophy.

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

Head Injuries: Trauma to the frontal lobe can result in localized atrophy due to cell death and inflammation.

Substance Abuse

Alcohol Abuse: Chronic alcohol consumption can lead to brain damage, particularly in the frontal lobes.
Drug Abuse: Certain drugs can also contribute to neurodegeneration.

Infections and Inflammation

Encephalitis: Inflammation of the brain can lead to damage and atrophy.
HIV/AIDS: Can cause neurological complications, including atrophy.

Genetic Factors

Hereditary Conditions: Some genetic disorders can predispose individuals to frontal lobe atrophy.

Other Factors

Aging: Natural aging processes can lead to some degree of atrophy in the brain, including the frontal lobes.
Metabolic Disorders: Conditions like hypothyroidism or vitamin deficiencies can also impact brain health.

Understanding the underlying cause of frontal lobe atrophy is crucial for determining appropriate treatment and management strategies. If you have specific concerns or symptoms, consulting a healthcare professional is advisable.