Definition: Disease or condition in which the body’s immune system causes illness by attacking healthy cells in the body. Multiple sclerosis (MS) is believed to be an autoimmune condition in which the immune system, for unknown reasons, attacks the myelin surrounding the nerves. The symptoms of MS are caused by damage to the myelin.
Autoimmune Disease
By Julie Stachowiak, Ph.D., About.com
Updated: April 30, 2007
About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by the Medical Review Board
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