Overview of the Immune System and Autoimmune Diseases
The immune system is a complex network of cells and tissues that work together to protect the body from viruses, bacteria, and other infections. Its primary function is to recognize, neutralize, and destroy foreign substances that pose a threat to the organism.
What Happens in Autoimmune Diseases?
In autoimmune diseases, the normal functioning of the immune system is disrupted. Defense cells mistakenly identify healthy body tissues as foreign and initiate an immune attack against them. As a result, the body’s own tissues are damaged, and inflammatory processes develop.
Autoimmune diseases can affect almost all systems and organs of the body, including:
3.nervous system
5.skin
7.joints
8.lungs
9.kidneys
10.endocrine glands
11.digestive system
12.blood vessels
Types of Autoimmune Diseases
Some examples of autoimmune diseases include:
1.Alopecia areata
2Autoimmune hemolytic anemia
3Autoimmune hepatitis
4.Dermatomyositis
5.Diabetes mellitus (Type 1)
6.Glomerulonephritis
7.Granulomatosis with polyangiitis
8.Graves’ disease
9.Guillain–Barré syndrome
10.Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura
11.Certain forms of juvenile idiopathic arthritis
12.Myasthenia gravis
13.Certain forms of myocarditis
14.Multiple sclerosis
15.Pemphigus and pemphigoid
16.Pernicious anemia
17.Polyarteritis nodosa
18.Polymyositis
19.Primary biliary cirrhosis
20.Psoriasis
21.Rheumatoid arthritis
22.Scleroderma (systemic sclerosis)
23.Sjögren’s syndrome
24.Systemic lupus erythematosus
25.Certain forms of thyroiditis
26.Certain forms of uveitis
27.Vitiligo
Symptoms of Autoimmune Diseases
Most autoimmune diseases are accompanied by inflammation, which may cause the following symptoms:
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redness
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swelling
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pain
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increased warmth in the affected area
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sometimes fever
Because these diseases often affect more than one part of the body, symptoms vary depending on the organ involved. For example:
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Joints: pain, stiffness, limited mobility
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Thyroid gland: fatigue, weight changes, muscle pain
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Skin: rashes, blisters, discoloration
Causes of Autoimmune Diseases
The exact cause of autoimmune diseases has not yet been fully identified. However, in most cases, a combination of several factors is believed to play a role:
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genetic predisposition
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environmental factors (such as viral infections)
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hormonal influences
In individuals with a genetic tendency, certain external factors may trigger the onset of the disease.
Treatment of Autoimmune Diseases
Treatment depends on the type and severity of the disease. In most cases, the main goal is to reduce excessive immune system activity and control inflammation.
Treatment options may include:
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corticosteroids
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immunosuppressive medications
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anti-inflammatory drugs
Immunosuppressive medications help prevent tissue damage by reducing immune system activity.
Scientific Research on Autoimmune Diseases
Researchers continue to study the genetic foundations and mechanisms behind autoimmune diseases. New findings in this field will help:
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improve early diagnosis
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develop more effective and targeted treatment methods
Conclusion
Autoimmune diseases are complex conditions that require long-term management and care. Early diagnosis, an appropriate treatment strategy, and regular medical follow-up play a crucial role in maintaining patients’ quality of life.