Autoimmunitario

Autoimmunitario, or autoimmune in English, describes conditions in which the immune system attacks the body's own tissues. Autoreactive T and B cells, and autoantibodies, cause inflammation and tissue damage that can involve any organ.

Normally, immune tolerance prevents self-reactivity, but genetic predisposition (notably HLA alleles) and environmental triggers can disrupt this balance. Mechanisms such as molecular mimicry and epitope spreading contribute to loss of self-tolerance.

Common autoimmune diseases include type 1 diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, multiple sclerosis, autoimmune thyroid disease, inflammatory bowel disease, and psoriasis. Some are organ-specific; others are systemic.

Diagnosis combines clinical evaluation with laboratory tests and imaging. Autoantibody panels (ANA, anti-dsDNA, anti-TPO, anti-CCP, RF), along with organ-specific tests, support classification and monitoring.

Treatment aims to reduce immune activity, control symptoms, and prevent organ damage. Approaches include corticosteroids, conventional immunosuppressants, disease-modifying therapies, and targeted biologics; plus supportive care and lifestyle modifications.

Prognosis varies by disease and severity; some patients remit, others require ongoing therapy. Research continues in tolerance induction, biomarkers, and precision medicine.