Connective tissue disorders of the heart

Connective tissue disorders involve abnormalities in proteins like collagen and elastin, found in the tissues that connect different parts of your body. These disorders can affect the whole body, including the heart and blood vessels.

We have a team of world-class cardiologists and specialists dedicated to diagnosing and treating your child. Through our partnership with other area cardiology departments through the Chicagoland Children's Health Alliance, we have access to the largest and most comprehensive heart programs in the region that deal with complex conditions that affect the heart.

What types of connective tissue diseases affect the heart and blood vessels?

Of the more than 200 connective tissue disorders we know about several that can affect the heart and blood vessels.

Some connective tissue disorders contribute to vasculitis, which is a general term for blood vessel inflammation. Vasculitis can decrease blood flow to the heart.

Many connective tissue disorders are related to gene mutations that may be inherited. Others are autoimmune diseases, where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy parts of the body.

Some types of connective tissue disorders that may affect the heart and blood vessels are:

• Marfan syndrome: Leads to an enlarged aorta, which can cause a fatal rupture of the aorta and can also cause heart valve disease. It’s caused by a gene mutation of a connective tissue protein and can be inherited.
• Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS): Inherited condition that weakens blood vessels.
• Kawasaki disease: May damage coronary arteries and lead to permanent heart damage.
• Scleroderma: Causes systemic sclerosis that thickens and hardens the connective tissue of the heart, blood vessels and lungs. It’s a systemic autoimmune disease.
• Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE): An autoimmune condition that may cause inflammation of the lining of the heart.
• Mixed connective tissue disease: May cause inflammation around the heart or lead to heart failure.

Connective tissue disease treatment

Treatments for connective tissue disorders that affect the heart vary depending on the specific condition. Some connective tissue diseases that affect the heart benefit from a variety of medications to manage their symptoms and their effects on the heart. Ongoing care is essential to control symptoms and address any changes in your child’s condition.

Heart surgery is sometimes needed when a connective tissue disorder leads to significant enlargement of the heart vessels or problems with the heart valves.

Can connective tissue diseases be cured?

Many connective tissue diseases that affect the heart are chronic and don’t have a cure. Some, such as Kawasaki disease, can be cured. Children who have Kawasaki disease and receive prompt treatment can make a complete recovery and will have no long-term effects.

What is the prognosis for connective tissue diseases?

The prognosis for connective tissue diseases depends on the individual disease and its symptoms. Connective tissue disorders that affect the heart can be mild or they can be more serious. Consistent expert treatment is crucial to assure the best possible quality of life.

Contact us with your questions about heart care for your child.

Find an Advocate Children's heart center location near you.