Autoimmunity

Autoimmunity occurs when the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own healthy cells, treating them like foreign invaders. This can lead to various diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus, where inflammation and tissue damage occur. The exact cause of autoimmunity is not fully understood, but factors like genetics, infections, and environmental triggers may play a role. Essentially, the body loses the ability to distinguish between self and non-self, leading to a breakdown in the immune system's protective functions, which can result in chronic health issues.