Autopathic

/ˌɔːtəʊˈpæθɪk/ adjective

Definition

Relating to a disease, condition, or response that originates within the organism itself rather than from external causes.

Etymology

From Greek autos (self) + pathos (suffering/disease) + -ic (adjective suffix). A medical term from 19th-century pathology describing diseases of internal origin.

Kelly Says

Autoimmune diseases are autopathic—your own immune system is the disease. Your body's defense system, which should protect you, mistakenly attacks your own tissues. It's medical betrayal from within.

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