Autoimmune diseases occur when the immune system cannot distinguish between foreign and normal cells. As a result, the body may attack its own normal cells. This disease is not contagious, chronic, and can affect various organs.

According to the American Autoimmune Related Diseases Association (AARDA), there are several types of autoimmune diseases, including Lupus, Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Psoriasis, Psoriatic Arthritis, Thyroid disease (Graves' Disease & Hashimoto's Thyroiditis), and others.

Lupus is an autoimmune disease that occurs when the immune system attacks healthy tissues and cells. The symptoms vary, ranging from mild to severe. Basically, there are three main types of lupus, including Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE), Discoid Lupus, and Drug-induced Lupus.

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) is the most severe type of Lupus because it can affect many important organs, such as blood vessels, muscles, joints, digestive tract, lungs, kidneys, heart, and nervous system. This disease is more commonly found in young women. Symptomps found in patients can vary, such as pain or swelling in the joints, muscle pain, red rash on the face (butterfly rash), hair loss, chest pain, sensitivity to sunlight, and swelling in the feet or around the eyes. In addition to environmental factors and lifestyle, genetics also play a role in the development of this disease. Some studies suggest that several different genes may affect which organs or tissues are involved and the severity of the disease. 

The diagnosis of autoimmune diseases is not easy. According to Ana-Maria Orbai, M.D., M.H.S, a rheumatology specialist at John Hopkins Arthritis Center, diagnosing this disease is not done with just one type of examination. Specific complaints and symptoms are needed, certain blood test results, and tissue biopsy examinations. In addition, lupus treatment is determined by how severe the patient's condition is and which organs are involved.
 

Therefore, consult a doctor first if you experience any complaints related to autoimmune diseases.

 

Author: Dr. Alamanda Prycilia (Medical Doctor at PRAMITA Clinic Jemur Andayani No. 67 Surabaya)