Immunopatológia

Immunopatológia is the study of diseases caused by a malfunction of the immune system. It investigates how the immune system, which normally protects the body from pathogens, can mistakenly attack its own tissues or fail to protect against foreign invaders. This can lead to a wide range of conditions. These diseases can broadly be categorized into hypersensitivity reactions, autoimmune diseases, immunodeficiencies, and immune system cancers. Hypersensitivity reactions involve an exaggerated or inappropriate immune response to a normally harmless substance, such as allergies. Autoimmune diseases occur when the immune system attacks the body's own healthy cells, tissues, and organs, examples including rheumatoid arthritis and lupus. Immunodeficiencies are conditions where the immune system is weakened, making individuals more susceptible to infections, and can be primary (genetic) or secondary (acquired, like HIV/AIDS). Immune system cancers, such as lymphomas and leukemias, involve the uncontrolled proliferation of immune cells. Understanding immunopathology is crucial for diagnosing, treating, and potentially preventing these diverse and often serious conditions. Research in this field focuses on identifying the underlying mechanisms of immune dysregulation and developing targeted therapies.