Final answer:
Connective tissue diseases generally impact the skeletal system, which includes bones, ligaments, cartilage, and tendons. These structures provide support, enable movement, and protect internal organs.
Step-by-step explanation:
Connective tissue diseases affect various parts of the body including bones, ligaments, cartilage, and tendons. These components are essential parts of the skeletal system. Bones provide the framework of the body, cartilage covers the ends of bones at joints providing a smooth surface for movement, and ligaments are bands of fibrous tissue that connect bones together. Tendons, although not listed in the options you've provided, are also a form of connective tissue that attach muscles to bones, facilitating movement.
When considering the choices given in your question, the most comprehensive answer to what connective tissue diseases affect would be: 1) Bones, ligaments, cartilage, and tendons. This option includes the major supportive connective tissues that maintain body posture, protect internal organs, and participate in the skeletal system.