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Autoimmune Diseases Directory
Autoimmune disorders occur when the body's immune system reacts improperly, attacking and damaging the body itself. Follow the links below to find WebMD's comprehensive coverage about causes of autoimmune diseases, different types of autoimmune diseases, how to treat them, and much more.
Medical Reference
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Autoimmune Diseases
WebMD explains immune system disorders like asthma and rheumatoid arthritis, including causes and treatments.
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Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura: Definition and Stats
A background on ITP, including demographics and number of cases.
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Giant Cell Arteritis-FAQs
Frequently Asked QuestionsLearning about giant cell arteritis:What is giant cell arteritis?What is polymyalgia rheumatica?Being diagnosed:How is a sedimentation rate test done?How is a C-reactive protein test done?How is a complete blood count done?How is a temporal artery biopsy done?How is a bone density test done?Getting treatment:How can I get enough calcium and vitamin D?
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Giant Cell Arteritis-Topic Overview
What is giant cell arteritis?Giant cell arteritis (say ar-tuh-RY-tus), or GCA, is inflammation of the blood vessels. It mostly affects the arteries that carry blood to the head, especially those that supply the eyes, temple, and jaw. Because it often affects the artery in the temple, it is also called temporal arteritis.People who have giant cell arteritis need to be treated right away. That's because it can cause loss of vision and may lead to a stroke or mini-strokes. Some people who have giant cell arteritis also have polymyalgia rheumatica. This is another inflammatory condition that affects the muscles. It causes pain and stiffness in the hip, neck, or shoulder area. The same medicines are used to treat both conditions.What causes giant cell arteritis?Experts don't fully understand what causes it. It may be that the immune system is attacking the body's own tissues. Your genes may play a role in this. For example, people whose ancestors are from Scandinavia or Northern Europe are
Features
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Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) and Autoimmune Diseases
Learn what makes RA an autoimmune disease. Get the facts as to what autoimmune diseases are and how changes involving your immune system lead to RA.
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Life With an Autoimmune Disease
If you have general, lingering symptoms, you may be suffering from an autoimmune disease -- which means your immune system is attacking healthy tissue.