Immune complex diseases, also known as immune complex disorders or immune complex-mediated diseases, are a group of medical conditions that arise as a result of an abnormal immune response in the body. These diseases occur when a complex network of proteins and antibodies, called immune complexes, form and accumulate in various tissues and organs.
The immune system normally produces antibodies to fight off foreign substances, such as viruses, bacteria, or toxins. However, in certain situations, immune complexes can form when there is an imbalance in the immune response or excessive production of antibodies. These complexes can then deposit in different parts of the body, triggering inflammation, tissue damage, and immune system dysfunction.
Examples of immune complex diseases include systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, vasculitis, and glomerulonephritis. Symptoms of these conditions may vary depending on the specific organ or tissue affected, but common features include joint pain, skin rashes, fever, fatigue, and kidney dysfunction.
Diagnosis of immune complex diseases often involves a combination of clinical evaluations, laboratory tests (such as antibody assays), imaging studies, and tissue biopsies to assess the presence and distribution of immune complexes. Treatment aims to control inflammation, manage symptoms, and prevent further damage. It may involve medications that suppress the immune system, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and targeted therapies.
In summary, immune complex diseases refer to a group of conditions characterized by the abnormal accumulation of immune complexes in different body tissues, leading to inflammation, tissue damage, and organ dysfunction.
