Autoimmune diseases are conditions in which the body's immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissue. ALD, or Adrenoleukodystrophy, is a rare genetic disorder that affects the nervous system and can be fatal. It is caused by a mutation of the X-chromosome and affects both males and females.
ALD is considered an autoimmune disorder because it is caused by an abnormal response of the body's immune system. The body's immune system normally recognizes and eliminates foreign substances, such as bacteria and viruses, that can cause disease. In ALD, however, the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the healthy cells in the body, leading to damage in the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves.
The main symptom of ALD is progressive deterioration of the central nervous system. Over time, this can lead to loss of physical abilities, difficulty speaking, and even paralysis. Other symptoms can include vision and hearing loss, seizures, and difficulty with coordination and balance.
There is no cure for ALD, and treatments are limited to managing symptoms. However, with early diagnosis, some progressive effects of the disease can be slowed or even prevented. There are a few treatments available, such as enzyme replacement therapy, stem cell transplants, and gene therapy, but these treatments are still in the experimental stages.
In conclusion, ALD is considered an autoimmune disorder because it is caused by an abnormal response of the body's immune system. It can cause progressive deterioration of the central nervous system, leading to a variety of symptoms, and there is no cure for this devastating disorder. However, with early diagnosis and treatment, some of the effects of the disease can be managed or even prevented.