Autoimmune diseases occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own cells and tissues — there are over 80 distinct autoimmune conditions affecting different organ systems.
The immune system normally distinguishes 'self' from 'foreign' — attacking pathogens while tolerating the body's own tissues. In autoimmune disease, this tolerance breaks down: autoreactive T-cells and autoantibodies target the body's own proteins, causing inflammation and tissue damage. Over 80 recognised autoimmune diseases exist, varying in their target organ, mechanism, and severity.
Common autoimmune conditions include: rheumatoid arthritis (joints), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE — multiple organs), type 1 diabetes (pancreatic beta cells), Hashimoto's thyroiditis (thyroid), Graves' disease (thyroid), multiple sclerosis (central nervous system myelin), inflammatory bowel disease (gut), psoriasis (skin), and coeliac disease (gut). Many autoimmune diseases are more common in women, particularly in reproductive age groups.
Diagnosis combines clinical features, autoantibody testing (e.g., ANA, anti-dsDNA, rheumatoid factor, anti-CCP, ANCA, anti-thyroid antibodies), inflammatory markers, organ-specific tests, and biopsy. Management uses immunosuppressive therapies — corticosteroids, DMARDs (methotrexate, hydroxychloroquine), biologics (targeted therapies including TNF inhibitors, IL-17 inhibitors, and others) — tailored to the specific condition and severity. Korea's rheumatology, neurology, and gastroenterology services manage the spectrum of autoimmune diseases.
Key Points
- Over 80 distinct autoimmune diseases — affect different organs
- More common in women, especially in reproductive years
- Autoantibody testing helps confirm many autoimmune diagnoses
- Treatment: immunosuppressive therapy tailored to specific condition
- Biologics have transformed treatment of many autoimmune diseases
Causes & Risk Factors
- Genetic susceptibility (HLA genes)
- Environmental triggers: infections, UV light, smoking
- Hormonal factors — oestrogen influences immune activity
- Gut microbiome dysregulation
- Molecular mimicry (pathogen antigens resembling self-antigens)
When to See a Doctor
- Persistent joint pain with morning stiffness
- Unexplained fatigue with skin rash
- Symptoms affecting multiple organ systems
For emergencies in Korea, call 119
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This content is published for educational purposes only. For accurate diagnosis and personalised treatment, consult a licensed KMA physician in Korea.
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Medical Disclaimer
This article is published by DoctorsInKorea.com for educational and informational purposes only. It does not replace a professional clinical evaluation by a licensed healthcare provider. For accurate medical diagnosis and personalised treatment paths, please book an appointment with a licensed KMA physician. For immediate life-threatening medical emergencies in Korea, please call 119.
Sources & References
Last reviewed: March 1, 2025