Tumor-associated autoimmunity

Tumor-associated autoimmunity occurs when the body's immune system mistakenly targets both cancer cells and normal tissues, recognizing shared features between them. This can lead to the immune system attacking healthy cells, causing autoimmune symptoms, while also trying to fight the tumor. In some cases, this immune response can slow cancer growth, but it may also result in side effects due to damage to normal tissues. Understanding these processes helps in developing treatments that balance effective cancer control with minimizing autoimmune damage.