Autoimmunities

/ˌɔːtoʊɪˈmjuːnɪtiz/ noun

Definition

Plural form referring to multiple instances or types of conditions where your body's immune system mistakenly attacks your own cells and tissues.

Etymology

From Greek 'auto' (self) and Latin 'immunis' (exempt from obligation). The concept emerged in medical science in the mid-20th century as doctors recognized patterns of self-directed immune attacks.

Kelly Says

Your immune system is like a security guard trained to distinguish intruders from staff members—but in autoimmunities, the guard stops being able to tell the difference and attacks its own body. Conditions like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis are both autoimmunities.

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