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Published on: 10/30/2025

What causes the immune system to attack the body in lupus disease?

In lupus, the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own cells due to genetic and environmental factors that confuse the immune system. See below to understand more.

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Explanation

Lupus is a disease where the immune system, which normally protects the body from germs, starts attacking the body’s own healthy cells by mistake. This happens because of a mix of genetic and environmental factors that confuse the immune system.

How It Happens

  1. Genetic Factors: Some people are born with genes that make them more likely to get lupus. These genes can make the immune system more likely to get confused.
  2. Environmental Triggers: Things like infections, sunlight, and stress can trigger the immune system to start attacking the body.
  3. Immune System Confusion: In lupus, the immune system makes a mistake and thinks that the body’s own cells are invaders, like germs. This causes inflammation and damage to different parts of the body.

Understanding these factors can help in finding better ways to treat and manage lupus. If you have concerns about lupus or your health, it’s important to talk to a healthcare professional.

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