An autoimmune disease is when the body's immune system, which normally fights off infections and diseases, mistakenly attacks and damages its own healthy cells, tissues, or organs. Full definition
The immune system can even start to attack itself — the hallmark mechanism of autoimmune diseases such as arthritis and chronic fatigue syndrome. (naturalhealth365.com)
Recent studies of the human genome have identified genetic regions associated with autoimmune diseases such as type 1 diabetes. (joslin.org)
After menopause, there's a sharp rise in autoimmune disease in women, due to production of antibodies against normal tissues. (cathe.com)