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Autoimmune Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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autoimmune

[ษ”หtษ™สŠษชหˆmjun ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

medical condition

The term 'autoimmune' refers to diseases in which the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own healthy cells and tissues. This can lead to inflammation and damage to various organs and systems. Autoimmune disorders can affect anyone and often vary in severity and symptoms. Common examples include rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and multiple sclerosis.

Synonyms

autoaggressive, autoimmunity, self-immune.

Examples of usage

  • Autoimmune diseases can be challenging to diagnose.
  • Many people living with autoimmune disorders experience fatigue.
  • Treatment for autoimmune conditions often includes immunosuppressive drugs.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Medical Science

  • There are over 80 different autoimmune diseases, including conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and type 1 diabetes.
  • These diseases can affect any part of the body, leading to various symptoms depending on which tissues or organs are targeted.
  • Autoimmune conditions are more common in women, with research suggesting hormonal and genetic factors may play a role.

Cultural Perspectives

  • In various cultures, there's a growing awareness and discussions around autoimmune diseases, leading to community support groups for those affected.
  • Popular media sometimes portrays autoimmune disorders in various narratives, increasing visibility but sometimes leading to misconceptions about their nature.

Advancements in Research

  • Recent advances in biotechnology have led to new therapies aimed at retraining the immune system, showing promising results for some patients.
  • Scientists are investigating the gut microbiome's role in autoimmune disorders, providing insights into how lifestyle factors might influence these conditions.

Psychological Impact

  • Living with an autoimmune condition can lead to stress and anxiety, making mental health support crucial for individuals.
  • Research indicates that people with chronic autoimmune diseases often report feelings of uncertainty and frustration due to fluctuating symptoms.

Origin of 'autoimmune'

Main points about word origin

  • The prefix 'auto-' means 'self' in Greek, showing how the body's immune system turns against itself.
  • The term 'immune' comes from the Latin 'immunis', which means 'exempt' or 'free from'โ€”highlighting a misunderstanding of the body's role.

The term 'autoimmune' comes from the combination of the prefix 'auto-' meaning 'self' and the word 'immune,' which is derived from the Latin 'immunis' meaning 'exempt' or 'free from.' The concept of autoimmunity emerged in the early 20th century as scientists began to understand how the immune system works. Diseases classified under the term 'autoimmune' were initially thought to be rare but have since been shown to be more common than previously believed, affecting millions of individuals worldwide. The understanding of autoimmune diseases has evolved significantly, leading to advancements in diagnosis and treatment.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #16,252, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.