Autoimmune Diseases and Their Environmental Triggers (McFarland Health Topics)

Autoimmune Disease (AD) refers to any of a number of disorders caused by an immune system defect that allows the body to attack its own tissues. Some say 20 percent of the population is susceptible to Autoimmune Disease. According to current theory, individuals who develop AD do so because they are exposed to certain environmental triggers. This work is a comprehensive resource for patients with autoimmune disease. The primary focus is on the specific environmental factors, including heavy metals, hormones, organic solvents, medications, and infectious agents, that lead to autoimmune disease and that make the symptoms worse in genetically susceptible individuals. Sections of this work describe the immune system, the natural courses of disease for the various system-wide and organ-specific autoimmune disorders, and genetic factors and lifestyle influences associated with AD. Diagnostic concerns, conventional and alternative treatment options for AD, current research paths, and laboratory tests are also covered.