How does histology contribute to understanding autoimmune diseases?
Autoimmune diseases occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own tissues. Histological studies are crucial in diagnosing and understanding these conditions by revealing tissue damage patterns and the types of immune cells involved. For example:
- Rheumatoid arthritis: Characterized by inflammation and destruction of joint tissues, with an influx of lymphocytes and macrophages. - Systemic lupus erythematosus: Involves immune complexes depositing in tissues, leading to inflammation and damage, particularly in the kidneys (lupus nephritis). - Multiple sclerosis: Demyelination in the central nervous system, observed as lesions with immune cell infiltration.
Histology provides a detailed view of tissue architecture and cellular interactions, aiding in the diagnosis and research of autoimmune diseases.
