Autoimmune Conditions

What is an Autoimmune Disease?

An autoimmune disease is a condition in which your own immune system fails to distinguish between your healthy tissue and foreign invaders like bacteria and parasites. It releases proteins called autoantibodies that attack healthy cells, leading to bodily inflammation and damage.     

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What are some examples of autoimmune conditions?

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Systemic Lupus Erythematosis and Rheumatoid Arthritis are some of the more common autoimmune conditions.  Various inflammatory disorders involving the skin, blood vessels and various other bodily organs can also be seen. 

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What are potential complications of autoimmune conditions?

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Complications can range from mild to severe organ dysfunction, with significant impairment of quality of life in some cases.  These can be prevented with prompt initiation of appropriate therapies by your Rheumatologist. 

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What is the treatment for an autoimmune disease?

Treatment of an autoimmune diseases focuses not only on controlling the autoimmune reaction with immunosuppressant medications but also helping mitigate potential triggers which may exacerbate flares of the disease. 

Corticosteroids may be used to control inflammation and suppress the immune system.  Other treatment options depend on the specific autoimmune condition.  Various biologic medications, for example, are now commonly used to treat rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory arthritides.