Question

Write the differences between autoimmune and autoinflammatory disorders.

Hint:

The key difference between autoimmune and autoinflammatory disorders lies in the immune response: autoimmune disorders involve adaptive immunity, while autoinflammatory disorders are caused by abnormalities in innate immunity.

Answer 1

Step 1: Definition of Autoimmune Disorders.
Autoimmune disorders are conditions where the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own tissues, considering them as foreign. Examples include diseases like systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and rheumatoid arthritis (R.
Step 2: Definition of Autoinflammatory Disorders.
Autoinflammatory disorders, on the other hand, are characterized by spontaneous inflammation due to an overactive innate immune response. These disorders are usually not associated with the production of autoantibodies. An example is familial Mediterranean fever (FMF).
Step 3: Key Differences.
- Immune system involvement: Autoimmune disorders primarily involve the adaptive immune system, while autoinflammatory disorders mainly involve the innate immune system.
- Autoantibodies: Autoimmune disorders often produce autoantibodies (e.g., anti-dsDNA in lupus), while autoinflammatory disorders do not.
- Treatment approach: Autoimmune diseases often require immunosuppressive drugs, while autoinflammatory diseases may respond to treatments targeting the innate immune system like colchicine.