Sjálfónæmis

Sjálfónæmis refers to a condition where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own healthy tissues. This happens when the immune system, which is designed to protect the body from foreign invaders like bacteria and viruses, loses its ability to distinguish between self and non-self. As a result, it produces antibodies and other immune cells that target and damage the body's own cells, tissues, and organs.

The exact causes of sjálfónæmis are not fully understood, but it is believed to be a complex interplay of genetic predisposition, environmental factors, and hormonal influences. Certain genes can increase an individual's susceptibility, but not everyone with these genes will develop the condition. Environmental triggers, such as infections, exposure to certain chemicals, or even stress, may play a role in initiating or exacerbating the autoimmune response in genetically predisposed individuals. Hormonal differences, particularly in women, may also contribute to why certain sjálfónæmis conditions are more prevalent in females.

Sjálfónæmis conditions can affect various parts of the body and manifest in a wide range of symptoms. Some common examples include rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, type 1 diabetes, multiple sclerosis, and psoriasis. The symptoms can vary greatly depending on the specific autoimmune disease and the organs or tissues affected. They can include inflammation, pain, fatigue, skin rashes, joint stiffness, and damage to internal organs. Diagnosis often involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, blood tests to detect autoantibodies, and sometimes imaging studies or biopsies. Currently, there is no known cure for most sjálfónæmis conditions, but treatments focus on managing symptoms, reducing inflammation, suppressing the immune system, and preventing or slowing down tissue damage.