Autoimmune Diseases: A Serious Medical, Economic and Social Issue

Abstract

Autoimmune diseases are currently registering an alarming incidents worldwide since the end of the Second World War. Usually as the consequence of a breach in immune tolerance, leading to the inability to sufficiently differentiate between self and non-self. Immune reactions that are usually targeted towards self-antigens can however lead to the destruction of the host’s cells and the development of autoimmune diseases. Although autoimmune disorders are comparatively rare, the worldwide incidence and prevalence is increasing and they have major adverse implications for mortality and morbidity. Genetic and environmental factors are thought to be the major factors contributing to the development of autoimmunity. However, viral infections are also one of the environmental triggers that can lead to autoimmunity. Current research suggests that several mechanisms, such as molecular mimicry and bystander activation, can cause viral-induced autoimmunity. Here, we overviewed the latest insights into the mechanisms of autoimmunity, Immunological Tolerance, classes, causes and epidemiology of autoimmune diseases, with some insight in some of Nigerian most skyrocketing autoimmune diseases.