Autoimmune disorders

Treatment:

The goals of treatment are to reduce symptoms and control the autoimmune process while maintaining the ability to fight disease. The symptoms are treated according to the type and severity.

Hormones or other substances normally produced by the affected organ may need to be supplemented. This may include thyroid supplements, vitamins, insulin injections, or other supplements. Disorders that affect the blood components may require blood transfusions.

Measures to assist mobility or other functions may be needed for disorders that affect the bones, joints, or muscles.

Autoimmunity is controlled through balanced suppression of the immune system. The goal is to reduce the immune response against normal body tissue while leaving intact the immune response against micro-organisms and abnormal tissues. Corticosteroids and immunosuppressant medications (including cyclophosphamide or azathioprine) are used to reduce the immune response.

Expectations (prognosis):

The outcome varies with the specific disorder. Most are chronic, but many can be controlled with treatment. Side effects of medications used to suppress the immune system can be severe.

Complications:

• destruction or lack of function of body tissues
• side effects of medications (See the specific medication.)

Calling your health care provider:

Call your health care provider if illness or symptoms of any autoimmune disorder develop (see the specific disorder).