autoimmunitaire

Autoimmunity, or autoimmunitaire in French, refers to conditions in which the immune system attacks the body’s own tissues, causing inflammation and organ dysfunction. It typically arises from a breakdown of self-tolerance, influenced by genetic susceptibility (notably certain HLA alleles) and environmental triggers such as infections or hormones. Abnormal B and T cell responses produce autoantibodies and autoreactive lymphocytes that mediate tissue damage.

Autoimmune diseases can be organ-specific, like type 1 diabetes or autoimmune thyroiditis, or systemic, such as systemic lupus erythematosus and rheumatoid arthritis. The clinical picture varies widely, ranging from fatigue and joint pain to organ failure, depending on the affected tissues.

Diagnosis combines clinical assessment with laboratory tests for autoantibodies and inflammatory markers, along with imaging and organ-specific evaluations as needed.

Treatment aims to reduce immune activity, control symptoms, and preserve function. Options include corticosteroids for short-term control, conventional immunosuppressants (for example methotrexate, azathioprine), and targeted biologic therapies (such as anti-TNF agents, rituximab, or interleukin inhibitors). Management is often long-term and individualized to minimize side effects while maintaining quality of life.

Epidemiology: autoimmune diseases collectively affect a significant minority of the population and show female predominance. Onset may occur at any age, most commonly in late adolescence to middle age; prevalence varies by disease and region.

Notes: Autoimmunity is distinct from autoinflammatory diseases, which involve innate immune dysregulation without autoantibodies. The term derives from Greek autos "self" and immune.