Connective tissue disease in the elderly.

The prevalence of the inflammatory disorders of connective tissue in the older age group is quite likely underestimated at the present time; and, in most instances, age-related factors influencing clinical expression and autoreactivity have not been intensively studied. The array of connective tissue disease that usually targets the young adult emerges in the older age group as well; and, selectively in the elderly, GCA and PMR are found. The association of malignancy with PM/DM is increased with advanced age. In view of the therapeutic implications, early diagnosis is essential, but this can be especially difficult in the setting of problems related to the ageing process.