The disorder may affect only 1 organ or tissue type or may affect multiple organs and tissues. Organs and tissues commonly affected by autoimmune disorders include blood components such as red blood cells, blood vessels, connective tissues, endocrine glands such as the thyroid or pancreas, muscles, joints, and skin. A person may experience more than one autoimmune disorder at the same time. Some disorders have multiple interrelated causes, one of which is autoimmunity. Symptoms of autoimmune disease vary widely depending on the type of disease.
Symptoms vary with the specific disorder and the organ or tissue affected.
Signs vary according to the specific disorder. A CBC may show increased numbers of white blood cells. Complement levels and levels of specific immunoglobulins or antigens may be elevated. The symptoms are treated according to the type and severity. Hormones or other substances normally produced by the affected organ may need to be supplemented.