Progress in basic and clinical immunology within the last two decades has provided profound insight into the immune system and its role in preventing endogenous and exogenous damage. In contrast, disbalances within this system can result in autoimmune disorders which may affect diverse organs and result in distinct clinical pictures. In many of these, however, the individual etiopathogenetic mechanisms are poorly understood and even more their clinical symptoms are hard to treat.
The book offers insight into basic mechanisms of autoimmune disorders. It includes neurological, gastrointestinal, ophthalmological and skin diseases as well as current and future therapeutic options including immunomodulatory drugs and different vaccination strategies. By addressing diverse organ systems, both singular and shared features are elaborated. Thus an exchange of ideas is intended across research on single organ systems within a truly interdisciplinary setting.