Neuroimmunology

Neuro-immunology involves the study and treatment of immune system diseases and conditions that affect the central nervous system.

What is the immune system?

The purpose of the immune system is to keep infectious microorganisms, such as certain bacteria, viruses, and fungi, out of the body, and to destroy any infectious microorganisms that do invade the body. The immune system is made up of a complex and vital network of cells and organs that protect the body from infection.

When the immune system does not function properly, a number of diseases can occur. Allergies and hypersensitivity to certain substances are considered immune system disorders. In addition, the immune system plays a role in the rejection process of transplanted organs or tissue. Other examples of immune disorders include the following:

  • Autoimmune diseases, such as juvenile diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and anemia
  • Immunodeficiency diseases, such as acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) and severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID)

Autoimmune diseases occur when the body's immune system mistakes its own healthy cells and tissues for foreign bodies or objects, and attacks itself, causing inflammation, injury and scarring. One example is allergies, but the body can also attack its own ...

  • Healthy blood vessels (Vasculitis)
  • Cells and tissues (Lupus)
  • Myelin, the protective sheathing that insulates and protects nerve cell fibers in the brain, optic nerve, and spinal cord (Multiple sclerosis)
Causes may be genetic or environmental or a combination of the two.

This page was last updated on 09/14/04.

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