adjective

autoimmune

/ˌɔːtoʊɪˈmjuːn/ · say it: AW·toh·ih·MYOON

the immune system mistakenly attacking the body itself

In more detail

1. (adjective) relating to a condition in which the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own cells and tissues, causing disease or damage

Examples

1. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that affects the joints.

How to use autoimmune

Autoimmune is a technical medical term used to describe diseases where the immune system malfunctions and targets the body's own tissues, such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or celiac disease. It is used attributively (before a noun) in medical and scientific contexts, and is increasingly common in general health discussions. The term is precise and non-emotional, simply describing the biological mechanism involved.

Common phrases

autoimmune disease
autoimmune disorder
autoimmune condition
autoimmune response
autoimmune antibodies

Synonyms

self-attacking · auto-aggressive

Word family

autoimmunity (noun) · autoimmune (adjective)

A common mistake

Learners sometimes confuse autoimmune with immunocompromised or immunodeficiency, which refer to a weakened immune system rather than a misdirected one.

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