Autoimmune diseases are conditions in which the body's immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells, tissues, and organs. There are more than 80 different types of autoimmune diseases, which can affect any part of the body. The two general causes of autoimmune diseases are genetic predisposition and environmental triggers.
Genetic predisposition is the tendency to develop a particular condition due to inherited genes. In the case of autoimmune diseases, certain inherited genetic mutations can make a person more likely to develop an autoimmune disorder. For example, people with certain variations of the HLA gene are more susceptible to developing some autoimmune diseases, such as type 1 diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis.
Environmental triggers can also cause autoimmune diseases. These triggers can range from infections to certain medications and even exposure to certain chemicals. For example, the Epstein-Barr virus has been linked to the development of conditions such as lupus and multiple sclerosis. Certain medications, such as statins, have also been associated with the development of autoimmune conditions. Additionally, exposure to environmental toxins, such as industrial chemicals, has been linked to the development of autoimmune diseases.
Overall, the two general causes of autoimmune diseases are genetic predisposition and environmental triggers. Genetic predisposition is the tendency to develop a particular condition due to inherited genes, while environmental triggers can range from infections to certain medications and even exposure to certain chemicals.