Understanding autoimmune diseases: part 2

Abstract

In the second part of this series on autoimmune diseases, Margaret Perry gives an overview of systemic lupus erythematosus, coeliac disease and ulcerative colitis This article follows on from a previous one looking at some of the more widely seen autoimmune diseases. Autoimmune diseases are highly complex in their pathophysiology, and this together with the variety of signs and symptoms, and variable degrees of severity, often makes diagnosis difficult. This article aims to give a brief insight into the conditions discussed, giving general practice nurses and non-medical prescribers some knowledge and confidence in assessing and advising patients who present, with the aim of getting an earlier diagnosis and treatment, and, ultimately, improving quality of life of all those affected by any of these diseases.