What is a key feature of autoimmune diseases?

A key feature of autoimmune diseases is that the body attacks its own cells. This occurs when the immune system mistakenly identifies healthy cells as foreign invaders, leading to inflammation and damage to various tissues and organs. This self-attack can result in a range of symptoms and conditions depending on which part of the body is affected.

While genetic factors may play a role in the development of autoimmune diseases, they are not solely responsible for their onset, as environmental and lifestyle factors can also contribute. Additionally, autoimmune diseases can affect individuals of all ages, not just adults. Finally, while some autoimmune diseases may lead to weight loss as a symptom, it is not a universal characteristic, as many people may experience weight gain or have weight stabilizing effects. Hence, the hallmark of these diseases is the inappropriate immune response against the body itself.