
Immune-mediated disease
An immune-mediated disease occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own tissues, believing they are harmful invaders like bacteria or viruses. Normally, the immune system protects us by fighting infections, but in these diseases, it targets healthy cells, leading to inflammation, tissue damage, and sometimes loss of function in affected organs. Examples include rheumatoid arthritis, where joints are affected, or multiple sclerosis, which impacts the nervous system. These conditions often require medical management to control the immune response and prevent further damage.