autoimmune
Self-Attacking Immune Response
Plain-language definition
A condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissue. Many neuro-ophthalmic conditions (NMO, MOGAD, myasthenia gravis) are autoimmune.
Where this term comes up
“Myasthenia gravis (MG) is an autoimmune disorder where antibodies attack the connection between nerves and muscles, causing muscle weakness that worsens with activity and improves with rest.”
Condition · Myasthenia Gravis and Your Eyes
“Mycophenolate is used off-label as a steroid-sparing treatment for selected autoimmune eye and neurologic conditions.”
Medication · Mycophenolate (CellCept/Myfortic)
“The acetylcholine receptor (AChR) antibody test is a blood test used to help diagnose myasthenia gravis, an autoimmune disease that causes muscle weakness.”
- Category
- Immune system term
- Also written as
- No alternate forms listed.
Immunology terms describe immune-system activity, antibodies, inflammation, or autoimmune processes that can affect the eyes and nerves.
Related glossary terms
- immunosuppressive
Immune System Suppression
- MRI
Magnetic Resonance Imaging
- cornea
Clear Front Window
- OCT
Optical Coherence Tomography
- bilaterally
On Both Sides
- arthritis
Joint Inflammation
A note on medical context
A glossary definition can explain a word, but it cannot tell you whether a symptom or test result is serious. If this term came from an article, use the full article and your clinician's guidance for context.