Guest guest Posted August 6, 2005 Report Share Posted August 6, 2005 Mommy, You wrote, " I have an auto-immune disease called Grave's Disease. I was diagnosed with that in September 2003 and had a complete Thyroidectomy in November 2003. Is pancreatitis at all, related to any sort of auto-immune diseases? " I am sorry to hear that you are going through so muc, especially having a brand new baby and such. We are glad you are here, and I know you will find some answers and support. The question you asked is a very common one. Autoimmune pancreatitis is also known as sclerosing pancreatitis or primary inflammatory pancreatitis. Autoimmune refers to a disease process in which the body's immune system attacks its own cells and tissues, in this case pancreatic tissue. Inflammation of the pancreas results in narrowing of the pancreatic ducts and chronic pancreatitis. I think many persons get confused between 'auto-immune disease' and 'immune system'. Autoimmune Disease means your immune system responds as if part of your body is a foreign substance. While continually making this mistake, the immune system basically turns on itself. Karyn E. , RN Executive Director, PAI Pancreatitis Association International Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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