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AAT Bioquest

What are the common conditions caused by overactive immune system?

Posted November 7, 2023


Answer

Some of the more common conditions caused by an overactive immune system include:

  • Celiac disease: Celiac disease is a condition in which the overactive immune system overreacts and attacks the small intestine when you consume gluten. In the process, it damages the villi, which are tiny, finger-like projections in the intestine that are essential for absorbing nutrients. 
  • Rheumatoid arthritis: When an overactive immune system attacks the joints, it causes rheumatoid arthritis, a condition that manifests as inflammation, stiffness, redness and pain in the joints. Over time, it can lead to deformation and loss of function in the joints.  
  • Inflammatory bowel syndrome: In this condition, the overactive immune system mistakenly attacks the lining of the digestive tract, resulting in inflammation and damage in the intestine. This causes symptoms associated with inflammatory bowel syndrome such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and other digestive problems. 
  • Multiple sclerosis: Multiple sclerosis or MS, is a condition in which the overactive immune system destroys the protective fatty layer surrounding the nerves, leaving the nerves more vulnerable to damage. As the disease advances, it starts to attack the spinal cord, brain, and eyes, causing loss of muscle control, and problems with other bodily functions including balance and vision. 
  • Lupus: Lupus is a condition that develops when the overactive immune system loses its ability to differentiate between pathogenic invaders and the body’s own tissues. As a result, the immune system targets and attacks various parts of the body including the skin, joints, blood cells, kidneys, and other organs, leading to inflammation, skin rashes, fatigue, tissue damage, and other symptoms.
Additional resources

Chapter 19Infection and autoimmune diseases

Immunohistochemistry (IHC)

iFluor® 488 PSA™ Imaging Kit with Goat Anti-Mouse IgG