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Autoimmune diseases
Lupusfoto.jpg
Young woman with the typical "butterfly rash" found in systemic lupus erythematosus
 
SpecialtyRheumatology, immunology, gastroenterology, neurology, dermatology
SymptomsDepends on the condition. Commonly low grade fever, feeling tired
Usual onsetAdulthood
TypesList of autoimmune diseases (alopecia areata, celiac disease, diabetes mellitus type 1, Graves' disease, inflammatory bowel disease, multiple sclerosis, psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, others)
MedicationNonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, immunosuppressants, intravenous immunoglobulin
Frequency24 million / 7% (USA)

An autoimmune disease is a condition arising from an abnormal immune response to a functioning body part. There are at least 80 types of autoimmune diseases. Nearly any body part can be involved. Common symptoms include low grade fever and feeling tired. Often symptoms come and go.

The cause is unknown. Some autoimmune diseases such as lupus run in families, and certain cases may be triggered by infections or other environmental factors. Some common diseases that are generally considered autoimmune include celiac disease, diabetes mellitus type 1, Graves' disease, inflammatory bowel disease, multiple sclerosis, psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, and systemic lupus erythematosus. The diagnosis can be difficult to determine.

Treatment depends on the type and severity of the condition. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and immunosuppressants are often used. Intravenous immunoglobulin may also occasionally be used. While treatment usually improves symptoms, they do not typically cure the disease.

About 24 million (~7.5%) people in the United States are affected by an autoimmune disease. Women are more commonly affected than men. Often they start during adulthood. The first autoimmune diseases were described in the early 1900s.

Signs and symptoms