Autoimmune Disorders

See all Pictures & Images

Autoimmune Disorders Treatment

The goals of treatment are to reduce symptoms and control the autoimmune process while maintaining the ability to fight disease. The symptoms are treated according to the type and severity.

Hormones or other substances normally produced by the affected organ may need to be supplemented. This may include thyroid supplements, vitamins, insulin injections, or other supplements. Disorders that affect the blood components may require blood transfusions.

Measures to assist mobility or other functions may be needed for disorders that affect the bones, joints, or muscles.

Autoimmunity is controlled through balanced suppression of the immune system. The goal is to reduce the immune response against normal body tissue while leaving intact the immune response against micro-organisms and abnormal tissues. Corticosteroids and immunosuppressant medications (including cyclophosphamide or azathioprine) are used to reduce the immune response.

Today's Top News Stories
•	FDA Backs Cholesterol Drug Vytorin - Jan 08, 2009, 17:00 Review says it lowered bad cholesterol more effectively than Zocor.
•	Common Flu Strain Resistant to Popular Antiviral Drug - Jan 08, 2009, 19:00 But other medications are available that work, CDC officials stress.
•	Many Turn Blind Eye to Racism - Jan 08, 2009, 17:00 They're not quick to condemn hurtful comments, study suggests.
•	Studies Challenge Framingham Risk Score - Jan 08, 2009, 19:00 The long-standing assessment for heart risk may not be accurate in some cases.
•	Clinical Trials Update: Jan. 8, 2009 - Jan 08, 2009, 10:12 Rheumatoid Arthritis Neurologic Disorders Seizure Disorders