Autoimmune Diseases Rashes Pictures: Exploring the Skin Manifestations of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

28.06.202327.06.2023 by alexxlab

How does autoimmune disease affect the skin? What do autoimmune skin rashes look like? Discover the visual cues of autoimmune conditions like systemic lupus erythematosus.

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Autoimmune Diseases and Their Skin Manifestations

Autoimmune diseases can have a profound impact on the skin, often manifesting in a variety of rashes, lesions, and other visible symptoms. While some autoimmune conditions primarily affect the skin, such as psoriasis or scleroderma, others can produce skin issues as a secondary symptom. Understanding these skin manifestations is crucial for early diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

The Diverse Appearance of Autoimmune Skin Conditions

Autoimmune skin conditions can take on many different forms, ranging from small, localized rashes to widespread, full-body lesions. The appearance can vary greatly in terms of color, texture, and distribution on the body. Some may appear as discolored or scaly patches, while others manifest as painful sores or blisters. This diversity in presentation can make autoimmune skin issues challenging to identify and diagnose.

Raising Awareness and Reducing Stigma

Despite the often visible nature of autoimmune skin symptoms, there is a lack of public understanding and awareness surrounding these conditions. This can lead to hurtful misconceptions, with many people assuming that the skin issues are contagious or the result of poor hygiene. By sharing photographs and personal experiences, we can help educate others and reduce the stigma associated with autoimmune skin manifestations.

The Impact of Autoimmune Skin Conditions

Living with autoimmune skin issues can be a significant burden, both physically and emotionally. The pain, discomfort, and self-consciousness associated with visible rashes or lesions can have a profound impact on a person’s quality of life. Additionally, the ongoing management of these symptoms can be a constant challenge, requiring continuous medical care and treatment.

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus and Skin Involvement

One of the autoimmune diseases known for its diverse skin manifestations is systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Lupus can cause a wide range of skin issues, from the classic “butterfly rash” across the face to more widespread, painful lesions. Understanding the visual cues of lupus-related skin problems can aid in early diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Navigating the Challenges of Autoimmune Skin Conditions

Living with an autoimmune disease that affects the skin can be a complex and frustrating experience. From dealing with the physical symptoms to navigating the social stigma, individuals with these conditions often face unique challenges. However, by raising awareness and fostering understanding, we can empower those affected and work towards improved support and treatment options.

Skin Manifestations as Diagnostic Clues

Autoimmune skin conditions can often serve as important diagnostic clues, helping healthcare providers identify the underlying autoimmune disorder. By recognizing the characteristic skin symptoms, clinicians can more quickly arrive at a proper diagnosis and initiate appropriate treatment. This emphasizes the crucial role of skin manifestations in the early detection and management of autoimmune diseases.

Autoimmune diseases can have a profound impact on the skin, often manifesting in a diverse array of rashes, lesions, and other visible symptoms. While some autoimmune conditions primarily affect the skin, others can produce skin issues as a secondary symptom. Understanding these skin manifestations is crucial for early diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

The appearance of autoimmune skin conditions can vary greatly, ranging from small, localized rashes to widespread, full-body lesions. This diversity in presentation can make these issues challenging to identify and diagnose, highlighting the need for increased awareness and education.

Despite the often visible nature of autoimmune skin symptoms, there is a lack of public understanding and awareness surrounding these conditions. This can lead to hurtful misconceptions and stigma, further compounding the burden faced by those living with these conditions. By sharing photographs and personal experiences, we can help educate others and reduce the stigma associated with autoimmune skin manifestations.

Photos Showing Autoimmune Disease Affect on Skin

Autoimmune diseases come in a variety of forms, each affecting different organs and bodily systems and producing a unique array of symptoms. While some of these symptoms may be “invisible,” skin manifestations can often be one of the most visible and telltale signs of autoimmune disease.

“Autoimmune diseases are conditions where the immune system, which is primarily designed to protect the body from infections such as bacteria and viruses, by attacking and destroying them, becomes confused and and will attack the body itself,” Cynthia Aranow, M.D., professor at the Feinstein Institutes Lupus Center of Excellence, told The Mighty. “The skin is an organ that is commonly attacked and affected.”

The skin issues caused by autoimmune disease are as varied as the individuals with the condition. They come in all shapes, sizes, colors, and textures, and can appear anywhere from your head to your toes. Some may have autoimmune disorders that primarily affect the skin, such as psoriasis, dermatomyositis, scleroderma, or epidermolysis bullosa. Others may experience skin issues as a symptom of one of the 100+ identified autoimmune diseases, or as a side effect of medication.

Though skin manifestations are often quite visible, there isn’t enough awareness about these symptoms, and this can lead to hurtful judgments and misconceptions. Many people (medical professionals included) see rashes, sores or lesions and automatically assume you’re contagious. But even if you explain to someone that no, you’re not contagious, many still shy away in disgust. The lack of understanding can be so frustrating and hurtful.

We wanted to raise awareness of the ways autoimmune disease can manifest on the skin, so we asked our Mighty community to share a photo showing how their skin has been affected. By helping others better understand what these symptoms can look like and what it’s like to live with them, hopefully we can reduce the judgment and stigma surrounding skin issues, while also advocating for quicker diagnoses and better treatments.

Here’s what the community shared with us:

1. “My DLE [discoid lupus erythematosus] in full flare.” – Meghan E.C.

2. “Psoriasis brought on by stress.” – Lori C.

3. “I was finally diagnosed with undifferentiated connective tissue disease and autoimmune urticaria six months ago although this rash first appeared two years ago. This is my upper thigh although it is a generalized rash. These raised areas do not itch but they are horribly painful and burn (nerve pain), like I’m being stung by dozens of jellyfish constantly.” – Allison E.

4. “You might not be able to see it due to my dark skin tone, but this picture was taken right after I got out of the hospital for the third time due to lupus-related incidents. Due to my ‘flare-ups’ going out of control, I started to get freckles on my nose. At first, I was really embarrassed by them. People at work would ask me about how I ‘suddenly got freckles.’ I couldn’t tell them without going into my whole lupus sob story, and it’s not really something I wanted to be known at work. It wasn’t until I met an old co-worker for lunch and she told me how ‘freckles fit my quirky personality.’ From that moment on, I decided not to hide my freckles any longer. I took this picture and posted them proudly. What’s weird is, I actually miss having them.” – Sidney D.

5. “Essentially an allergic reaction of two medications which made it essentially a chemical burn from the inside out! So so so painful! I had it on both hands, arm pits, back on my knees, even on my face! Rheumatoid disease problems!” – Jessie Z.O.

6. “I have several autoimmune conditions but they trigger Raynaud’s and it’s actually painful inside when this happens.” – Bianca P. M.

7. “Both arms, chest, upper back legs, behind ears, fingers… subacute cutaneous lupus (confirmation via biopsy). Never really ‘bothered’ me much in the past but now the sores drive me batty.” – Tricia M.C.

8. “Due to my postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS), this is the color it turns when the blood pools in my legs. Bright red and dark purple.” – Melany M.

9. “Lyme, babesia or bartonella… I don’t remember which one causes what anymore. But I have gained weight and these horrible red streaks – I thought they were stretch marks but apparently this is a token symptom of one of my diseases.” – Kathryn B.

10. “Very painful, swollen, red, pussing, flared up cracking, fingers… been dealing for quite awhile. Doc prescribed prednisone, helped just a bit… came back. Anyone else dealing with this?” – Karen B.

11. “The photo here shows me when I was on prednisone steroids for my ulcerative colitis (left). I had a bloated face and terrible acne from the treatment. I’ve also seen how my autoimmune disease can affect me with white spots and rashes on the face, wrists and next to my stoma (what remains of my intestines that sticks out of my stomach).” – Saleem J.

12. “Today is a good day, so my skin isn’t too bad. I have Hashimoto’s. Dry skin makes my hands look much older than my 28 years and eating anything my thyroid doesn’t like causes an itchy red rash that sticks around for weeks.” – Megan P.

13. “Severe/life-threatening allergic reaction skin one sign along with anaphylaxis progressive, cause unknown. Autoimmune rapidly spreading across body.” – Dayna-Elyssia C.

14. “I have lupus and antiphospholipid syndrome (APS). They have caused me to have livedoid vasculopathy all over my body. This is a picture of my stomach. It’s where I have it the worst. It’s due to the blood vessels collapsing and not bringing the blood supply my skin needs. It’s also happening to my internal organs and my brain. I don’t share this on Facebook and I keep my super noticeable areas covered because people look at it like it’s gross and treat me like I’m contagious. Even nurses and doctors look at it with disgust and touch me with ‘icky fingers.’ I constantly have to tell people who see it, ‘Don’t worry! It’s not contagious. It’s just my blood supply shutting down to parts of my body. If anyone should be worried, it’s me!’ It’s on my arms, legs, chest, and starting on my face. It’s getting harder to hide. It’s the only visible part of my invisible illnesses. I wish people understood that I’m not contagious and that their facial expressions sometimes hurts more than the skin pain. ” – Jennifer M.

15. “When my lupus flares or I get stressed out I develop not only a malar rash but also raised painful rashes. My face feels hot, like it’s on fire, tight from swelling, and painful. It will spread to other areas of my body as well.” – Amy P.A.

16. “Extreme bruising due to an undiagnosed autoimmune disease. This one was due to an IV, but I get ones like this all the time.” – Amber B.

17. “This is me. I have an undiagnosed autoimmune disease. I have hypo- and hyper-pigmentation as a result. My face is several different shades. There really isn’t anything to hide it, unless I want to wear really thick makeup.” – Kathy A.

18. “This is not a sunburn. This is a rash covering my entire arm. There were other places affected by it as well (ears, face, legs from the knee down, anything I had exposed to the sunlight). This happens every time I am in the sun. On this day, I was in it for over eight hours for a softball tournament. Sunblock doesn’t help. But like I said, it’s not a burn, but a horrible itchy rash.” – Stephanie D.

19. “Skin discoloration from overuse of a heat pad. And scabs from my belly being distended.” – Lance S.

20. “This is my malar rash when I’m flaring. It used to be one connected flush and now it’s turned to raised patches and a flush over my nose.” – Emily C.

21. “I had chronic erythema nodosum (EN) for two and a half years from Crohn’s disease. I didn’t present like a typical case at first so it took months to convince my doctors that I was sure it was EN. It took changing treatments, then doubling the dose and increasing frequency to finally clear up. What a nightmare! I’ve recently started seeing a couple very faint spots coming back on one leg, hopefully it doesn’t progress any further. ” – Julia C.

22. “(Covered in Sudocrem.) Random patches appeared like this on my legs and my gastro said it’s a common occurrence with Crohn’s disease… Two months and countless prednisolone tablets on, they’re getting worse and more have popped up on my legs (mainly) and stomach. Off to the hospital tomorrow for more treatment options as they’re so sore and oozy.” – Amy G.

23. “Before I got diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), my legs looked like this. My dermatologist said that it was called erythema nodosum and that it was common in autoimmune diseases. It was really itchy and raised. It eventually cleared up with prednisone but left bruising up and down my legs. Prior to being diagnosed with RA, I had been diagnosed with a different disorder, so being in pain wasn’t alarming. These marks were my eye opener and eventually why I was diagnosed. ” – Juliana W.

24. “Psoriasis on the soles of my feet. I have to wear socks all the time so I don’t leave blood everywhere. The heels especially crack and bleed. I stopped taking my RA immune suppressants for a surgery and all of a sudden this blooms on my feet. I had no idea a skin condition could be so painful.” – Karen J.

25. “The lovely roadmap on my back and legs…” – Shannon G.M.

26. “Rosacea caused by a lupus flare-up. Thousands of little blisters, all over my face, at least one week out of every month. They burn and itch like crazy. The medication my dermatologist gave me helps clear it up faster, but does nothing to help the burning pain. It’s basically a week of hell every time it flares up.” – Patricia H.

If you’re struggling with skin issues because of your chronic illness, know you’re not alone. Talk with your doctor about the skin-related symptoms you’re experiencing to find out what treatments might be available to help.

“Treatment depends on both the extent of skin involvement as well as the underlying autoimmune disease,” Dr. Aranow shared. “In general, topical creams and ointments are the first line of therapy. Other therapies used in more severe conditions include pills or injections.”

Causes, 71 pictures of symptoms, and treatments

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Other health conditions

A range of other health conditions can involve a rash or skin reaction. They include circulatory problems, hormonal conditions, and others.

The pictures below show examples of rashes due to:

Stasis dermatitis
Addison’s disease
Dermatitis neglecta
Dermatomyositis
Panniculitis, a complication of gout
Ichyosis vulgaris
Porphyria
Kawasaki disease

If a rash occurs with the following features, a person should seek medical advice:

a sore throat
pain in joints
a recent animal or insect bite
red, purple, or dark streaks near the rash
tender regions near the rash
a large collection of pus

Most rashes are not a major cause for concern, but anyone with the following symptoms should seek emergency medical care:

quickly changing coloration on the skin
difficulty breathing or feeling like the throat is closing up
increasing pain or severe pain
high fever
confusion
dizziness
swelling of the face or extremities
severe pain in the neck or head
repeated vomiting or diarrhea

Rashes can appear differently depending on a person’s skin tone, which can affect diagnosis. Here, find out how various rashes may appear in different skin colors.

Rashes can happen for many reasons. Some are mild and need no intervention, while others can be a sign of a severe underlying disorder.

Knowing how to recognize skin changes can help a person access early treatment for conditions that could otherwise lead to severe complications.

Autoimmune diseases in adults: a complete list of diseases

Contents

1 List of autoimmune diseases in adults: a complete overview and symptoms
- 1.1 Autoimmune diseases in adults
- 1.2 Autoimmune diseases in adults: definition and features
- 1.3 Systemic diseases of the connective tissues
- 1.4 Rheumatoid arthritis
- 1.5 Autoimmune diseases: systemic lupus erythematosus
- 1.6 Scleroderma: an autoimmune disease that affects connective tissue
  - 1.6.1 Description
  - 1.6.2 Symptoms
  - 1.6.3 Treatment
- 1. 7 Hashimoto’s thyroiditis – autoimmune thyroid disease
- 1.8 Cro disease to: autoimmune bowel disease
- 1.9 Autoimmune diseases in adults: list of diseases
  - 1.9.1 Psoriasis
- 1.10 Type 1 diabetes
- 1.11 Allergic amyloidosis
- 1.12 Autoimmune diseases in adults: list of diseases
  - 1.12.1 Myasthenia gravis
- 1.13 Related videos:
- adults?
- 1.14.0.2 How do autoimmune diseases manifest in adults?
- 1.14.0.3 How is autoimmune disease diagnosed in adults?
- 1.14.0.4 How are autoimmune diseases treated in adults?
- 1.14.0.5 Can autoimmune diseases in adults be inherited?
- 1.14.0.6 Can autoimmune diseases be prevented in adults?

This article provides a list of autoimmune diseases in adults. You will learn about the causes of diseases, symptoms and treatments. Important information for those who have experienced similar problems or are interested in health issues. Read on our website.

Autoimmune disease is a condition in which the immune system attacks its own cells, believing them to be foreign. This leads to inflammation and damage to tissues, organs and body systems. Diseases of this group can affect all areas of the body, from the skin to the internal organs.

Autoimmune diseases are a broad group of diseases that are diagnosed in millions of people around the world. Among the most common examples of this type of disease are psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus and Crohn’s disease. They can have different symptoms and manifestations depending on the type of disease and the area affected.

The correct diagnosis of autoimmune diseases is often difficult because their symptoms can be varied and non-specific. Accurate diagnosis may require planning and conducting various tests and examinations.

This article provides a list of some of the more common autoimmune diseases in adults. We will look at each of these cases to understand how they affect the body, what symptoms they may have, and how they are treated in modern medicine.

Autoimmune diseases in adults

Autoimmune diseases are a class of diseases associated with the immune system being damaged when it attacks its own tissues instead of hostile external agents. In adults, autoimmune diseases can occur due to both genetic predisposition and environmental influences.

There are many autoimmune diseases affecting various human systems and organs. Some of these are the most common:

Rheumatoid arthritis – a disease that destroys articular cartilage
Systemic lupus erythematosus – damage to the connective tissue
Chronic autoimmune thyroiditis – attack of the immune system on the thyroid gland
Sugar type 1 diabetes is an attack by immune cells to pancreatic beta cells
Scleroderma is a connective tissue disorder that leads to stiffness of the skin and internal organs.

Treatment of autoimmune diseases typically includes the use of immunosuppressive drugs and anti-inflammatory drugs, as well as lifestyle modification. You should consult a doctor in case of suspicious symptoms, such as fatigue, joint pain, skin rashes and other symptoms associated with damage to certain systems and organs.

Autoimmune diseases in adults: definition and characteristics

Autoimmune diseases are a group of diseases associated with a malfunction of the immune system, which begins to perceive its own cells and tissues of the body as hostile and attack them. Thus, the immune system attacks its own tissues, causing inflammatory processes that lead to various pathologies and symptoms.

Autoimmune diseases can affect various organs and systems of the body, including the blood, skin, joints, thyroid, nervous system, kidneys, and others. Each autoimmune disease has its own characteristic signs and symptoms that are difficult to identify without proper diagnosis.

It is important to note that autoimmune diseases in adults can develop under the influence of various factors, including genetic predisposition, exposure to infections and viruses, stress, poor environment, and others. In addition, autoimmune diseases can manifest as both acute and chronic conditions and require a serious and integrated approach to treatment and prevention.

Rheumatoid arthritis
Systemic lupus erythematosus
Systemic scleroderma
Antiphospholipid syndrome
Hashimoto’s thyroiditis
Type 1 diabetes

These are just some of the autoimmune diseases that can occur in adults. Each of them has its own characteristics and mechanisms of development, and may also have different methods of treatment and prevention.

Systemic connective tissue diseases

Systemic connective tissue diseases (SCTD) are autoimmune diseases that affect the body’s connective tissue, including collagen, elastin, fibrous proteins, and others. These diseases can be inherited, but are more often caused by external factors such as infections, stress, etc.

MCTS includes diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus, systemic scleroderma, Sjögren’s syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, polymyositis, dermatomyositis, and others. They can affect different organs and systems of the body, which leads to a variety of symptoms and complications.

Systemic lupus erythematosus is a disease that affects the skin, joints, kidneys, cardiovascular system and other organs. It is manifested by rashes on the skin, aching joints, fever and other symptoms.
Systemic scleroderma is a disease in which the body’s connective tissue is replaced by fibrous tissue, resulting in skin and organ stiffness, breathing problems, kidney failure, and other complications.
Sjögren’s syndrome is a disorder that affects the salivary and lacrimal glands, resulting in dry mouth and eyes, and other symptoms.

TCTD treatment is aimed at reducing inflammation, relieving symptoms, and attenuating the autoimmune response. Some medications can be used as medicines, such as glucocorticosteroids, immunosuppressive drugs, and others.

Some systemic diseases of the connective tissue

Name of the disease
Main symptoms
Medical supervision

Systemic lupus erythematosus	Skin rash, fever, joint pain, kidney problems, cardiovascular problems	Rheumatologist
Systemic scleroderma	Stiffness of the skin and organs, breathing problems, kidney failure	Rheumatologist, cardiologist, pneumologist
Sjögren’s syndrome	Dry mouth and eyes, joint pain, fatigue	Rheumatologist, ophthalmologist

Rheumatoid arthritis

Rev matoid arthritis is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects the joints and can lead to joint deformity and loss of functionality. It is classified as an autoimmune disease, as patients experience a violation of the immune system, when it begins to attack not only infectious agents, but also healthy tissues, including joints.

Rheumatoid arthritis can present with a variety of symptoms, including pain, swelling and limited mobility of the joints, dysfunction of the hands and feet, feeling tired and general weakness, and dysfunction of other organs and systems of the body.

Unfortunately, there is no drug that can completely cure rheumatoid arthritis. However, many new therapies using immunomodulators or biologics can slow the progression of the disease and improve the quality of life of patients.

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the joints.
Pain, swelling and limited mobility of the joints, functional impairment of the hands and feet, and fatigue are typical symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.
Modern therapies that are used to treat rheumatoid arthritis can slow the progression of the disease and improve the quality of life of patients.

Autoimmune diseases: systemic lupus erythematosus

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disease that can affect many organs and systems in the body, including the skin, joints, cardiovascular system, and kidneys. One of the features of SLE is the presence of antinuclear antibodies ANA in the patient’s blood.

In SLE, symptoms can develop unpredictably and vary depending on which organs are affected. These may include skin rashes, joint inflammation, arrhythmias, high blood pressure, and proteinuria.

Skin rashes in SLE can be of different shapes and located on different parts of the body. Most often, these rashes are represented by small red dots on the face, neck, chest and arms.
SLE often causes joint problems. It can be inflammation, pain and stiffness of movements. Sometimes the disease can lead to destruction of the joints, especially if treatment is not started on time.
Cardiac problems in SLE are usually arrhythmias and high blood pressure. They can be caused by inflammation of the myocardium, inflammation of the vascular wall, or kidney dysfunction.
Kidney problems can be one of the most serious manifestations of SLE. They can lead to the development of nephropathy or chronic renal failure.

Treatment for SLE may include certain medications such as blood purifiers, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and glucocorticoids. In addition, long-term treatment planning and regular monitoring of the disease by a specialist may be required.

Scleroderma: an autoimmune disease that affects connective tissue

Description

Scleroderma is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system begins to attack connective tissue in various organs and tissues of the body. This leads to changes in the skin, bones, muscles, blood vessels, lungs, kidneys, and digestive system.

Symptoms

Symptoms of scleroderma may vary depending on which organs and tissues are affected. General symptoms may include the following:

Swelling and difficulty moving;
Pain and tingling in limbs;
Skin itching and changes in the skin such as stiffness, tightness, thinness or spots on the skin;
Fatigue and weakness;
Breathing problems such as cough, shortness of breath and chest pain;
Dysfunction of the digestive system such as heartburn, constipation, diarrhea and abdominal pain.

Treatment

Treatment of scleroderma is aimed at reducing symptoms and slowing the progression of the disease. Drug therapy, such as immunosuppressive and immunomodulatory drugs, may be prescribed, as well as hormonal therapy. Physical therapy, rehabilitation, biological therapy, and surgical treatment may also be helpful. It is important that patients consult with their doctor about an individualized approach to treating their condition.

Hashimoto’s thyroiditis – an autoimmune thyroid disease

Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is an autoimmune disease in which the body’s immune system begins to attack the tissues of the thyroid gland, which leads to inflammation and disruption of its functions. The disease is named after the Japanese physician Hakaru Hashimoto, who first described its symptoms and signs in 1912.

Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is the most common cause of hypothyroidism (low thyroid function) in adults. The disease occurs in women 10 times more often than in men and most often occurs after 40 years.

Symptoms of Hashimoto’s thyroiditis may include: fatigue, drowsiness, decreased mood, weight gain, decreased heart rate, menstrual irregularities. Some patients may also experience pain in the thyroid area.

To diagnose Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, a general blood test for the level of thyroid hormones, an analysis for the presence of antibodies to the thyroid gland, and an ultrasound examination of the thyroid gland are performed. Treatment includes taking hormonal drugs that replace the lack of thyroid hormones, as well as correcting metabolic disorders and vitamin and mineral balance.

Risk factors: family history of autoimmune disease, female gender, age over 40 years.
Warning: you need to monitor your health and regularly undergo preventive examinations with an endocrinologist.

Crohn’s disease: an autoimmune bowel disease

Crohn’s disease is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the gut and can affect any part of it. This disease is described in 1932 by American gastroenterologist Bernard Krohn and involves inflammation of the intestine, usually starting in the small intestine and spreading to other parts of the intestine over time.

Crohn’s disease often occurs in people between the ages of 15 and 35 and is thought to be more common in women. This disease has several phases, which can be repeated during the life of the patient. In the remission phase, the disease may not manifest itself, but the patient’s life changes again when it resumes.

Symptoms of Crohn’s disease can range from mild skin manifestations to painful diarrhea, bleeding, malnutrition and tooth growth, bowel pain and general fatigue. Like other autoimmune diseases, Crohn’s disease is highly individual and can manifest differently in each patient.

Fortunately, there are several treatments available to help patients manage their symptoms. It can be either medication or surgery. It is important to know that with the first signs of the disease, you should immediately consult a doctor so that a specific form of the disease is identified and appropriate treatment is prescribed.

Autoimmune diseases in adults: a list of diseases

Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes dry, red and scaly patches on the skin. Spots can appear on any part of the body, including the scalp, nails, and joints.

Psoriasis is often inherited and is associated with a malfunction of the immune system. The body produces an excess amount of skin cells and provokes inflammation, which causes spots.

The symptoms of psoriasis can vary depending on the severity of the disease. Some people may only have a few small spots, while others may have spots covering most of the body.

Symptoms of psoriasis may include:
Dry, red and scaly patches on the skin
Scabies or burning in the affected area
Thick, red , thickened or protruding nails
Yellow or white spots on nails
Joint pain and stiffness

Although there is no cure for psoriasis, there are various treatments that can help reduce symptoms and improve a patient’s quality of life. Treatment may include ointments, creams, laser therapy, phototherapy, and drugs.

Benefits of treating psoriasis
Drawbacks of treating psoriasis

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Type 1 diabetes

Type 1 diabetes, also called insulin-dependent diabetes, is a an autoimmune disease in which the body’s immune system attacks the cells in the pancreas that produce insulin. As a result of this process, insulin levels in the body decrease, which can lead to high blood glucose levels and serious health complications.

Type 1 diabetes often occurs in children and young adults, but can also occur in adults. Type 1 diabetes symptoms include frequent urination, thirst, fatigue, weight changes, and loss of appetite. To treat this condition, the patient may be given insulin injections and lifestyle changes such as a healthy diet and exercise.

Type 1 diabetes has no known cause, but may occur in people with certain genetic predispositions or as a result of environmental factors. Diagnosis of type 1 diabetes includes a blood glucose test and a test for antibodies to pancreatic cells.

Although there is no cure for type 1 diabetes, appropriate treatment and control of blood glucose levels can improve a patient’s quality of life and prevent complications. It should also be realized that type 1 diabetes is not an indicator of poor lifestyle or carelessness, and people who are faced with this disease deserve the love and support of others.

Allergic amyloidosis

Allergic amyloidosis (AA-amyloidosis) is a rare inflammatory disease caused by the deposition of amyloid in tissues of various organs and tissues.

Amyloid are unfertilized protein fragments that accumulate in tissue and can lead to limited function of affected organs. AA amyloidosis most commonly affects the kidneys, liver, and bladder.

AA-amyloidosis can occur in anyone, but most commonly occurs in people who have had chronic inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, or other diseases associated with inflammation.

Treatment of AA amyloidosis may include supportive care such as drugs to control blood pressure, hormones, and dietary changes. In some cases, surgery may be required.

Autoimmune diseases in adults: a list of diseases

Myasthenia gravis

Myasthenia gravis is a rare autoimmune disease characterized by muscle weakness and fatigue.

Possible symptoms of myasthenia gravis are:

decreased muscle strength;
muscle soreness;
loss of visual acuity;
double vision;
problems with the nervous system;
difficulty breathing and swallowing.

Myasthenia gravis is a chronic disease that has no cure, but drug therapy can control symptoms and maintain the patient’s quality of life.

Reducing symptoms
Improving quality of life
Prevention of complications

Treatment can be expensive
Changes in drug regimen
Possible side effects from drugs

Causes
Symptoms
Treatments

Genetic factors;
Viral infections;
Unfavorable ecological condition.

Decreased muscle strength;
Muscle soreness;
Loss of visual acuity;
Double vision;
Problems with the nervous system;
Difficulty breathing and swallowing.

Drug therapy;
Surgery;
Plasmapheresis therapy.

Myasthenia gravis is a very serious disease that requires timely and correct diagnosis and treatment. At the first symptoms, you should consult a doctor.

Q&A:

What diseases are classified as autoimmune diseases in adults?

Adult autoimmune diseases include rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, granulomatosis with polyangiitis (formerly Wegener’s granulomatosis), lichen planus, Sögren’s syndrome, scleroderma, and many others.

How do autoimmune diseases manifest themselves in adults?

Manifestations of autoimmune diseases in adults may vary depending on the disease, but common symptoms may be: fatigue, decreased performance, fever, pain in the joints and muscles, skin and mucous membrane disorders, dysfunction of internal organs, impaired immune systems.

How are autoimmune diseases diagnosed in adults?

For the diagnosis of autoimmune diseases in adults, a set of methods is used: complete blood count, biochemical tests, tests for the presence of antibodies to the body’s own tissues, radiography, ultrasound, MRI, biopsy, and others. An accurate diagnosis can only be made by a doctor with sufficient experience in this field of medicine.

How are autoimmune diseases treated in adults?

Treatment of autoimmune diseases in adults is complex and may involve the use of various drugs: anti-inflammatory, glucocorticosteroid, immunosuppressive, cytostatic, and others. In addition, physiotherapy, therapeutic exercises, diet and other supportive therapies may be prescribed. Treatment is carried out individually for each patient and depends on the severity of the disease and the presence of associated pathologies.

Can autoimmune diseases in adults be inherited?

Yes, some autoimmune diseases in adults have a genetic predisposition and can be inherited. But this does not mean that every person who has such a gene will necessarily get sick with this pathology. The risk of disease depends on many factors, including the presence of external causes that contribute to the development of the disease.

Is it possible to prevent the development of autoimmune diseases in adults?

It is impossible to prevent the development of autoimmune diseases in adults, since these diseases are caused by disorders of the immune system, which can be caused by various factors. But you can reduce the risk of developing diseases by maintaining a healthy lifestyle, giving up bad habits, rational nutrition, regular physical activity, preventive measures to strengthen the immune system and visiting a doctor for the timely diagnosis and treatment of various diseases.

Autoimmune diseases – causes, symptoms, treatment, prevention

A group of diseases in which the immune system begins to attack its own healthy cells and tissues is called autoimmune (AID). The Israeli clinic Hadassah Medical Moscow successfully uses unique comprehensive treatment programs that allow you to control the immune system and correct the patient’s condition. This preserves the health and improves the quality of life

of our patients. Autoimmune diseases are an uprising of one’s own immunity against the body, when the immune system (IS) suddenly sees foreign agents in healthy cells and directs all its strength to fight them. Different systems and organs of the body can be affected, the most severe complications are the failure of the functioning of vital organs, multiple organ failure.

To date, the exact mechanisms of this condition have not been established, but modern medicine can offer successful treatment of symptoms, normalize the patient’s condition and prevent complications. The Hadassah Medical Moscow clinic uses the latest treatment methods and unique drugs that have proven themselves in the largest medical centers in Israel and Europe. Therefore, AID treatment here achieves better results than in other medical centers.

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Zhukova
Daria Grigoryevna

Allergist-immunologist, Ph.D.

Work experience: 14 years

Cost of admission: from 9000 ₽

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Zaitseva
Galina Valerievna

Allergist-immunologist

Work experience: 10 years

Cost of admission: from 6500 ₽

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Benefits of treating autoimmune diseases at the Hadassah Clinic

International Standards for Treatment Programs

When determining the treatment regimen, we rely on the best examples of treatment algorithms from the experience of Israeli and European clinics. Each patient receives the maximum, so the result will be as positive as possible.

Medical councils

Every decision in treatment activities is taken collectively. Specialists organize consultations with Israeli colleagues, and expert doctors from abroad take part in the management of patients.

High-tech treatment and advanced technologies

The medical center is equipped with the most modern diagnostic and treatment equipment. We use high-tech methods of treatment, we use modern equipment to increase the effectiveness of the chosen medical tactics.

Unique medicines

Our clinic uses medicines that have shown their high efficiency in foreign clinics, but are not yet registered in Russia. You get world-class treatment without leaving the country.

Comprehensive treatment with coordination of all stages

We always monitor the results of treatment in dynamics and, if necessary, adjust treatment tactics. The patient is treated by doctors of different specialties, so a look at a clinical case is not a private opinion of one doctor, but an objective assessment of a medical consultation. Specialists keep in touch with patients even after treatment, in order to monitor their health and correct possible deviations in time.

Healing environment

Within the walls of our clinic, patients feel at ease, comfortable and convenient, because the entire interior is thought out to the smallest detail. Patients receive full attention, assistance and support from the staff, and if necessary, professional care.

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Autoimmune diseases – what is it?

AID is not a single pathology, but a whole class of health disorders characterized by loss of tolerance to self antigens (AH). The exact mechanism of their origin is unclear, but many internal and external factors are known to be triggers for these conditions. Autoantibodies (autoantibodies) cause damage to organs and systems, because they are aimed at the destruction of autoantigens (autoAG) – substances of the body’s own cells, which are recognized by the immune system as foreign.

The consequences of this are organ or systemic pathological processes that arise under the influence of one’s own immunity, which has rebelled against native healthy cells.

This group is the most common among all known diseases – AIDs have 5-7% of the world’s population. The pathology affects people of any age and has a gender preference: there are twice as many women with this problem as men.

AID has a large number of nosological forms (about 100) and forms clinically severe complications with life-threatening consequences. Identification of such pathologies at an early stage will allow taking control over the pathological process and slowing it down, preventing severe and dangerous consequences.

Symptoms and signs of autoimmune diseases

Knowing what an autoimmune disease is, one can assume the multiplicity and non-specificity of symptoms characteristic of a large class of pathologies.
But there are some signs of AID that should be taken into account and consulted by doctors in time:

etc.
Inflammation of the joints, joint pain.
Problems with the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract.
Thyroid dysfunction.
Infertility, regular spontaneous abortions.
Thrombosis of blood vessels, varicose veins, trophic ulcers on the lower leg, convulsions, tremor of the extremities.
Weakness, fatigue.
In women, menstrual irregularities.
Abdominal pain.
Sudden weight loss or gain.
Bulimia.
Subfebrile body temperature.
Noticeable disorders of the psycho-emotional sphere.

Even before the appearance of obvious symptoms corresponding to the lesion of a certain organ, a person feels constant chilliness of the lower extremities, his skin is pale. There may be signs of pathologies of the heart and blood vessels, cold allergies.

Causes, risk factors

What is an autoimmune disease? In simple terms, this can be called the aggression of body cells against itself. The body seems to be fighting with itself, unable or having forgotten how to distinguish between foreign agents and its own cells.

This “promiscuity” of immunity is called immunological tolerance. It can be formed for the following reasons:

Incorrect intrauterine development of the fetus.
Violation of the vital activity of T and B lymphocytes responsible for actions against their own cells.
For unknown reasons, the protective mechanisms of organs and tissues are violated, as a result of which the immune system begins to attack them.
Impaired immune response.
Poor heredity, genetic predisposition.
Bacteria and viruses have formed an immune response, which is also directed against their own cells similar in proteins.
Pregnancy, when fetal cells form an autoimmune reaction in the mother’s body because they have the antigens of the child’s father.

There are several risk groups for AIDs in which, according to scientific studies, pathological conditions occur more often:

Anyone who has had a bacterial or viral infection can acquire AIDs in the future.
Women are affected almost twice as often as men, so this is a gender-specific disease. In the vast majority of cases, the disease occurs during childbearing age, during pregnancy and after childbirth.
A hereditary regularity in the appearance of cases of pathologies has been discovered. For example, systemic lupus erythematosus, multiple sclerosis often have a family clinical picture.
People who regularly come into contact with toxins, harmful substances, get intoxicated, have a greater risk of developing autoimmune diseases.
Damage to tissue-blood barriers due to inflammation contributes to the risk of AID.

The preferred age of pathology is from 18 to 50 years.

To some extent, black, Hispanic, and Indian ethnic groups are also at risk because AID is more likely to affect their members.

Diagnosis of autoimmune diseases

The diagnostic program always starts with an anamnesis. The doctor clarifies information about hereditary pathologies, past infectious diseases, harmful factors at work, etc.

Medical examination of the body

is performed to assess the condition of the skin, lymph nodes, veins, the presence of a rash, venous pattern, livedo reticularis on the lower extremities, swelling of the joints, hematomas.

Immunofluorescent laboratory test for the detection of autoAT

which in a biological tissue (blood) sample will be isolated using fluorescent staining preparations.

Multicomplex blood test

helps to detect autoAT.

Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA)

detecting autoAT or autoAG with quantitative assessment.

Solid-phase ELISA study

this method is accessible and easy to perform, and also has a quantitative format

Multicomplex analysis

a modern diagnostic method that aims to detect autoAT

To assess the work of internal organs, systems, registration of pathological foci and disorders, the following is performed:

Radiography.
MRI.
CT.
ultrasound.
Endoscopic diagnostics.

All survey results are assessed comprehensively. In case of ambiguous data, additional studies are performed. The patient is sent for a consultation to the doctors of narrow specializations to clarify the diagnosis.

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Treatment of autoimmune diseases

Examination and counseling of patients with AID is carried out by an immunologist, although the patient is managed by a specialized doctor corresponding to the group of diseases: nephrologist, cardiologist, dermatologist, endocrinologist, etc.

Is it possible to cure an autoimmune disease?

It is impossible to completely get rid of an autoimmune disease. The goal of treatment is to achieve long-term remission with constant complex therapy.

It may be thought that such an autoimmune disease progresses rapidly and is a variant of oncology. But no, modern medical methods and means can not only eliminate most of the unpleasant symptoms, alleviate the condition during periods of exacerbations, but also restore the patient’s ability to work, improve the quality of life. To do this, it is very important to consult a doctor in time and follow all the recommendations for diagnosis and treatment.

How to stop the autoimmune process in the body?

There is no universal cure for AID. However, there are methods that are most often used in treatment:

Antiparasitic, anti-infective therapy for the treatment of invasion and infections that are the trigger of pathology.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
Painkillers.
Corticosteroid hormones.
Hormone replacement therapy (insulin for diabetes).
Immunosuppressants, cytostatics.
Immunomodulators.
TNF inhibitors.
Therapeutic exercise, physiotherapy, balneotherapy, diet therapy, vitamin therapy.

Surgical treatment is necessary in case of complications that can be corrected by radical methods: for example, elimination of intestinal obstruction in Crohn’s disease, kidney transplantation in case of organ failure, arthroplasty in case of joint damage.

This is interesting! Modern scientific research is aimed at studying gene and cell technologies. Donor stem cell transplantation has been shown to be effective in some diseases, such as Crohn’s disease, as well as beta-cell transplantation of the islets of Langerhans of the pancreas for the treatment of type 1 diabetes. It is likely that these technologies will soon be widely used in the treatment of autoimmune diseases.

Types of pathologies

AI pathologies must be distinguished from the autoimmune syndrome, which is formed in a healthy body, is not a cause, but a consequence of diseases and is aimed at eliminating diseased, damaged cells. An autoimmune disease is precisely a disease that gives rise to other pathological processes.
Doctors distinguish three main groups of autoimmune diseases:

Organ-specific when autoAT is directed against one or more autoAGs in the cells of a particular organ.

Diseases belonging to this group:

Hoshimoto’s thyroiditis;
Addison b-n, or bronze;
myasthenia gravis, or bulbar palsy;
thyrotoxicosis;
atrophic gastritis AI nature;
pemphigus vulgaris, or bullous dermatosis;
myocarditis;
multiple sclerosis;
pernicious anemia.

This group also includes pathological conditions: early onset of menopause in women, sympathetic ophthalmia, some forms of male infertility, uveitis.

Non-organ-specific , or systemic, in which auto-ATs are directed against substances located in different tissues and organs of the body.

List of autoimmune diseases:

rheumatoid arthritis;
scleroderma;
systemic lupus erythematosus;
Sjögren’s syndrome;
group of systemic vasculitis;
polymyositis;
Sarcoidosis.

Some diseases, such as celiac disease and chronic hepatitis, can be included in this and the next group.

Mixed that simultaneously have both mechanisms of action of autoAT.

Among these pathologies:

mixed connective tissue disease;
type 1 diabetes mellitus;
ulcerative colitis;
biliary cirrhosis;
celiac disease;
Goodpasture’s syndrome;
AI bronchial asthma.

Pathology caused by the AI reaction of the body, in some cases, may exist for a short time and disappear unexpectedly, but more often it has a chronic course and leads to severe complications in which a person cannot survive without constant medical care.

Preventive measures

There is no specific prevention of AI pathology. But in order to reduce the risks, all viral, bacterial infections, SARS should be completely cured.

You need to adjust your diet, bring your body weight back to normal, learn how to cope with stress. Affordable physical activity, moderate regular sports activity help a lot.

Prevention of relapses is the implementation of all medical recommendations and the proper organization of nutrition, lifestyle, and the rejection of bad habits.

AID treatment in the Hadassah clinic

Highly qualified doctors of the Israeli clinic Hadassah Medical Moscow select the optimal treatment program for each patient on an individual basis, taking into account the characteristics of his disease, comorbidities, age, and other factors.

Medicines and treatment methods used in our clinic are modern, effective and safe. Many of the methods and drugs are used only in the Hadassah clinic, because they are not yet registered in Russia.

Our patients achieve stable remission, positive results of complex maintenance therapy, if they follow the medical recommendations of expert doctors.

#ZhukovaDYu

Zhukova
Daria Grigorievna

Allergist-immunologist, Ph. D.

Work experience: 14 years

Published: 06/26/2023

The information provided on the site is for reference only and cannot serve as a basis for making a diagnosis or prescribing treatment. Internal consultation of the expert is necessary.

SOURCES

Nebesnaya LV A modern approach to the diagnosis of autoimmune diseases // Torsuev readings: a scientific and practical journal on dermatology, venereology and cosmetology. – 2019. – No. 2. – P. 46-48.
Heavenly L. V. Autoimmune diseases. Some aspects of laboratory diagnostics // Torsuev readings: a scientific and practical journal on dermatology, venereology and cosmetology. – 2019. – No. 4. – S. 58-61.
Romanova OE Pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases // Scientific Education. – 2019. – no. 3 – S. 26-30.
Ryabkova VA, Churilov LP, Yehuda Sh. Hyperstimulation of the immune system as a cause of autoimmune diseases // Bulletin of the Russian Academy of Medical Sciences. – 2020. – T. 75. – No. 3. – S. 204-213.
Novikova I., Khoduleva S. Autoimmune diseases: diagnosis and principles of therapy. – Litres, 2018.
Kurchenkova VI, Kapralov NV Diagnostic spectrum of autoantibodies in autoimmune liver diseases. – 2019.
Kalinchenko S. Yu., Korotkova NA Vitamin D deficiency as a trigger factor in the development of autoimmune diseases // Questions of Dietology. – 2018. – T. 8. – No. 2. – S. 32-37.
Sokolov A. V., Schmidt A. A., Lomakin Ya. A. B-cell link in the regulation of autoimmune diseases // Acta Naturae (Russian version). – 2018. – T. 10. – No. 3 (38). – S. 11-23.
Asfandiyarova N. S. Is type 2 diabetes mellitus an autoimmune disease? // Russian Journal of Immunology. – 2020. – T. 23. – No. 1. – P. 9-18.
Abdulganieva D. I. et al. Family cases of autoimmune liver diseases // Effective pharmacotherapy. – 2019. – T. 15. – No. 28. – S. 62-65.
Sbikina ES et al. On the role of hepatitis viruses in the etiology and pathogenesis of autoimmune liver diseases // Farmateka.

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Causes, 71 pictures of symptoms, and treatments

Other health conditions

Autoimmune diseases in adults: a complete list of diseases

Autoimmune diseases in adults

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Systemic connective tissue diseases

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Symptoms

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Hashimoto’s thyroiditis – an autoimmune thyroid disease

Crohn’s disease: an autoimmune bowel disease

Autoimmune diseases in adults: a list of diseases

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Autoimmune diseases – causes, symptoms, treatment, prevention

Department doctors

Benefits of treating autoimmune diseases at the Hadassah Clinic

Autoimmune diseases – what is it?

Symptoms and signs of autoimmune diseases

Causes, risk factors

Diagnosis of autoimmune diseases