Autoantibodies

Autoantibodies are proteins created by the body’s immune system that mistakenly recognize its own cells as foreign and attack them. Their identification and detection are crucial in diagnosing autoimmune diseases, like rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and systemic sclerosis (SSc), in which these antibodies are produced in excess and can cause injury to tissues and organs. Measuring the levels of autoantibodies can also help in monitoring disease progress. In some cases, treatments designed to reduce autoantibody production may be used to reduce inflammation and protect against tissue and organ damage.