Definition: Connective tissue is the material inside your body that supports many of its parts. It gives tissues their shape and helps keep them strong. It also helps some tissues do their work. Cartilage and fat are examples of connective tissue. There are over 200 disorders that affect connective tissue. Connective tissue disorders can be a result of an infection, injury, or genes or have an unknown cause. Each disorder has its own symptoms and needs different treatment.