What are the features of autoimmunity?

Autoimmunity refers to the body’s immune system directing attacks against its own healthy cells. 

These are some of the common features observed in autoimmune diseases: 

• Genetic predisposition associated with HLA (human leukocyte antigen)
• Measurable autoantibody levels
• Onset in young adulthood or middle age
• Increased susceptibility among females of child-bearing age
• Fluctuations in severity of symptoms ranging from flare-ups to remissions
• Immunosuppressive treatments elicit a positive response