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Free Online Flashcard Deck

2 Autoimmune Diseases Free Online FlashCards

Study 2 Autoimmune Diseases with 12 free online flashcards. Review key terms, definitions, and concepts with this interactive flashcard deck.

12 cards
01
Front

What defines an autoimmune disease?

Back

Autoimmune diseases occur when the immune system mistakenly targets the body’s own cells or tissues.

02
Front

What is self-tolerance?

Back

Self-tolerance limits immune responses against the body’s own tissues while preserving the ability to respond to infections and other threats.

03
Front

What can self-reactive B cells produce?

Back

Self-reactive B cells may produce autoantibodies that target the body’s own tissues.

04
Front

What factors contribute to autoimmune disease risk?

Back

Risk reflects interactions among genetic susceptibility, immune regulation, and environmental influences. A particular trigger is often unknown.

05
Front

How does type 1 diabetes illustrate organ-specific autoimmunity?

Back

In type 1 diabetes, immune-mediated destruction of pancreatic beta cells reduces insulin production.

06
Front

How can autoimmune thyroid diseases affect thyroid function?

Back

Hashimoto thyroiditis may make the thyroid underactive, while Graves disease may make it overactive.

07
Front

What are common signs of inflammation?

Back

Inflammation may cause pain, warmth, redness, and swelling.

08
Front

What does autoimmune disease diagnosis generally combine?

Back

Evaluation combines clinical history, physical examination, and targeted tests, while considering affected organs, symptom changes, and alternative causes.

09
Front

What does a positive autoantibody test establish by itself?

Back

A positive autoantibody result alone does not establish an autoimmune diagnosis; it must be interpreted alongside clinical findings.

10
Front

Can one blood test rule in or rule out every autoimmune disease?

Back

No single blood test diagnoses all autoimmune diseases, and a negative result does not necessarily rule out every autoimmune condition.

11
Front

What are the main goals of autoimmune disease treatment?

Back

Treatment aims to reduce harmful inflammation, prevent or limit organ damage, relieve symptoms, and preserve function.

12
Front

Why must immunosuppressive treatment be monitored?

Back

Immunosuppressive treatment can weaken defenses against infection, so clinicians weigh its benefits against risks and monitor for adverse effects.