Understanding Autoimmune Diseases: Symptoms, Diagnosis and Management

Autoimmune diseases are conditions in which the body’s immune system attacks its own cells, tissues and organs, mistakenly recognizing them as foreign. The process can lead to inflammation, damage and dysfunction of various parts of the body. These conditions can be classified according to their target in the body, their clinical and immunological features, or according to the organs involved.

Common autoimmune diseases

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus is an autoimmune disease that can affect various parts of the body, including the skin, joints, kidneys and nervous system. There are several various signs and symptoms that may indicate Systemic Lupus Erythematosus. These can include fatigue, fever, headache, joint pain and rash. Multiple sclerosis is another autoimmune disease that can affect the nervous system and cause symptoms such as loss of balance, muscle weakness and vision problems.

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that usually affects the joints and can cause pain, stiffness and swelling. Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is an autoimmune disease that affects the thyroid and can cause fatigue, muscle weakness and weight gain. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease that affects the pancreas and can lead to high blood sugar levels. Celiac disease is an autoimmune disease that affects the small intestine and can cause symptoms such as diarrhea, bloating and weight loss.

To diagnose an autoimmune disease, it is important to consult a specialist and perform the necessary laboratory tests. These may include blood tests to detect specific antibodies and imaging tests to assess the condition of affected organs. It is important to identify the disease as early as possible, as early treatment can help control symptoms and slow the progression of the disease.

Therapeutic options available to treat autoimmune diseases include immunosuppressive drugs, corticosteroids, biological treatments, and symptomatic therapies. It is important for the doctor to monitor the progress of the disease and adjust the treatment according to the patient’s response and general health. Close collaboration between the patient, the specialist and the multidisciplinary team can help ensure optimal management of the autoimmune disease.

Functioning of the immune system

The defense mechanisms of the immune system are particularly important in protecting the body against pathogens. These mechanisms include physical and chemical barriers such as skin and mucus, but also immune cells and inflammatory processes. Immune cells such as macrophages, neutrophils and dendritic cells are responsible for recognizing and eliminating pathogens.

Antibodies also play a crucial role in the functioning of the immune system. These are proteins produced by B cells and are specialized in identifying and neutralizing pathogens. Antibodies are essential in the process of adaptive immunity, which involves the specific recognition of pathogens and the production of specific antibodies to combat them.

There are two types of immunity: innate and adaptive immunity. Innate immunity is the first line of defense against pathogens and includes physical and chemical barriers as well as immune cells such as neutrophils and macrophages. Adaptive immunity is specific for each pathogen and involves the specific recognition of pathogens and the production of specific antibodies to combat them.

Defects in the normal functioning of the immune system can lead to an attack on one’s own tissues and organs, leading to autoimmune diseases. These diseases are caused by an exaggerated immune reaction against the body’s own tissues and organs. Many autoimmune diseases are difficult to diagnose, making it difficult to accurately estimate the number of people affected.

Management of autoimmune diseases requires an integrated approach that includes adaptation to a healthy lifestyle, monitoring and management of symptoms, emotional care and psychological support, and information and education about autoimmune disease.

Information sources:
1. Orbai, Ana-Maria. “What Are Common Symptoms of Autoimmune Disease?” Johns Hopkins Medicine, 2019, www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/what-are-common-symptoms-of-autoimmune-disease. Accessed 29 May 2023;
2. Watson, Stephanie. “Autoimmune Diseases: Types, Symptoms, Causes and More.” Healthline, 26 Mar. 2019, www.healthline.com/health/autoimmune-disorders. Accessed 29 May 2023.