Autoimmune diseases occur when the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own healthy cells and tissues. Instead of targeting external threats like viruses or bacteria, the immune system becomes overactive or misdirected, leading to inflammation and damage.
There are over 80 types of autoimmune diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, type 1 diabetes, lupus, and multiple sclerosis. Symptoms often include fatigue, inflammation, pain, and organ-specific issues, depending on the condition.
The ADPC focuses on rheumatic autoimmune diseases with a particular focus at this time in RA and pre-RA.