Autoimmune disease

Definition

Autoimmune disease occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own cells and tissues. This can lead to chronic inflammation and tissue damage.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Autoimmune diseases involve a malfunction in the adaptive immune response, particularly affecting T lymphocytes.
2. Common examples of autoimmune diseases include rheumatoid arthritis, type 1 diabetes, and multiple sclerosis.
3. The exact cause of autoimmune diseases is often unknown but involves genetic predisposition and environmental factors.
4. Treatments typically focus on immunosuppression to reduce immune system activity.
5. Autoantibodies are often present in autoimmune conditions, targeting specific self-antigens within the body.

Review Questions

• What role do T lymphocytes play in autoimmune diseases?
• Name three common examples of autoimmune diseases.
• What are autoantibodies, and how do they relate to autoimmune disorders?

Related terms

T Lymphocytes:

White blood cells that play a central role in cell-mediated immunity.

Hypersensitivity:

An exaggerated immune response leading to tissue damage.

Autoantibodies:

Antibodies produced by the immune system that target an individual's own proteins or tissues.