Autoimmune diseases

Autoimmune diseases are caused by the fact that the immune system produces antibodies that attack its own tissues. It is not yet known why the immune system reacts that way. Autoimmune diseases are not genetic diseases, but it requires a genetic predisposition for the development of such diseases.
This means that certain combinations of genes leading to increased risk of developing autoimmune diseases.
In addition to genetic factors, environmental factors are also required. They are triggers that finally activate the immune system. Infection, hormonal changes, smoking and malnutrition are some of the environmental factors that are considered triggers of autoimmune reactions.
Distribution of antibodies control how an autoimmune disease is manifested. We distinguish organ-specific diseases where specific organs are attacked by the immune system and autoimmune diseases in which several organs or systems may be attacked simultaneously.

According to EULAR (European League Against Rheumatism) recommendation all patients with unexplained arthritis or arthritis in systemic diseases should be examined and treated in accordance with the rheumatologist from the beginning. Effective drug treatment should start early and that requires experience and integrated control system for monitoring the outcome and reducing the risk of side effects of therapy. It is important that doctor who is first meeting the patient with joint problems determines if the inflammation is present.

Rheumatic diseases

You can find out more about different rheumatic diseases and conditions here: http://www.rheumatology.org/I-Am-A/Patient-Caregiver/Diseases-Conditions