The Differences between Autoimmune Diseases & Primary Autoimmune Deficiencies
The immune system is composed of a complex array of cells, proteins, organs, and other substances that work together to prevent infection (Immune Deficiency Foundation, n.d.). A properly functioning immune system works to get rid of viruses or bacteria that enter the body by producing antibodies. These antibodies signal to a type of white blood cells (the cells that protect against illness) known as T-cells, telling them where to find the infection so it can be destroyed. Primary Immunodeficiencies and autoimmune diseases are both characterized by a malfunctioning immune system - but how it malfunctions is very different.
Primary Immunodeficiencies
Primary immunodeficiencies are much more rare than autoimmune diseases. When a patient has a primary immunodeficiency, the body’s immune system functions incorrectly or parts of the immune system are missing (IDF, n.d.). There are over 450 primary immunodeficiencies, which are caused by hereditary genetic defects (IDF, n.d.). Because patients with a primary immunodeficiency has an immune system that doesn’t function properly, they are more susceptible to infections and may suffer from repeated infections, infections that won’t clear up, or unusually severe infections (IDF, n.d.).
One of the most common primary immunodeficiency conditions is Common Variable Immune Deficiency, or CVID for short. CVID is thought to be caused by genetic defects, but the exact cause is still unknown (IDF, n.d.). CVID is characterized by a deficiency of serum immunoglobulins and antibodies, which result in increased risk of infections (IDF, n.d.).
Autoimmune Diseases
Autoimmune diseases function a bit differently than primary immunodeficiencies. When a patient has an autoimmune disease, their immune system attacks the body itself, including healthy cells, tissues, and organs (U.S. Department, n.d. ). Basically, the immune system can’t recognize friend (the body) from foe (infectious bacteria or viruses). Autoimmune diseases can range in severity, from mild to life-threatening. There are over 80 known autoimmune diseases, the most common of which are Rheumatoid Arthritis, Lupus, Hashimoto thyroiditis, and multiple sclerosis.
Diagnosis & Treatment
Diagnosing autoimmune diseases and primary immunodeficiencies is notoriously difficult. That’s why it’s important to see providers who are experienced in the diagnosis and treatment of both disease types. For primary immunodeficiencies, diagnosis is typically made by an immunologist. If you believe you may have a primary immunodeficiency, seeing your SageMED primary care doctor is a great start, as our practitioners can provide preliminary testing and appropriate referrals.
SageMED is able to support patients in the diagnosis and treatment of autoimmune diseases. Schedule today with one of the practitioners below:
References
IDF. (n.d.). Immune Deficiency Foundation. About Primary Immunodeficiencies . https://primaryimmune.org/about-primary-immunodeficiencies
Immune Deficiency Foundation. (n.d.). About Primary Immunodeficiencies. Autoimmunity | Immune Deficiency Foundation. https://primaryimmune.org/about-primary-immunodeficiencies/relevant-info/autoimmunity
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (n.d.-a). Autoimmune diseases. National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences. https://www.niehs.nih.gov/health/topics/conditions/autoimmune/index.cfm