Autoimmune diseases are caused by a combination of genetic, environmental, and immunological factors, though the exact causes remain largely unknown.

Key Causes and Contributing Factors

• Genetics: There is a strong genetic predisposition to autoimmune diseases. Some autoimmune conditions tend to run in families, and certain genes increase the risk of developing specific autoimmune diseases. For example, diseases like lupus and multiple sclerosis often occur in multiple family members. Twin studies also show higher concordance rates among identical twins compared to fraternal twins, indicating genetic influence

• Immune System Dysfunction: Normally, the immune system distinguishes between harmful invaders and the body's own tissues. In autoimmune diseases, this system malfunctions and attacks healthy tissues, mistaking them for threats

• Environmental Triggers: Various environmental factors can trigger or exacerbate autoimmune diseases, especially in genetically susceptible individuals. These include:
  • Infections (especially viral infections)
  • Exposure to certain chemicals and toxins (e.g., pollutants, pesticides, industrial chemicals)
  • Certain medications that may alter immune function
  • Ultraviolet radiation
  • Dietary factors and gut microbiome imbalances (gut dysbiosis)
  • Stress

• Hormonal Factors: Autoimmune diseases are more common in women (about 78% of cases), suggesting that sex hormones and hormonal changes (e.g., pregnancy, childbirth, menopause) influence disease development

• Other Risk Factors: Smoking, obesity, and exposure to toxic agents also increase the risk of autoimmune diseases

Summary

Autoimmune diseases arise when the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own tissues due to a complex interplay of genetic susceptibility, environmental exposures, immune dysregulation, and hormonal influences. While genetics provide a predisposition, environmental triggers and other factors are necessary to initiate the autoimmune response

Three factors are at play in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases: genes, immune system, and the environment where the patient lives - highlighting the multifactorial nature of these conditions