Overview
The immune system is the body's defense system against infection, disease, and foreign substances. Once stimulated, the immune system automatically turns on to locate and fight invading cells.
An autoimmune disease develops when the body's immune system fails to recognize normal body tissues and attacks and destroys them as if they were foreign rather than attacking an outside organism. The cause is not fully understood, but in some cases it is thought that autoimmune diseases are triggered by exposure to microorganisms or other environmental causes, especially in people with a genetic predisposition to the disorder. A single organ or multiple organs and tissues may be affected.
There are nearly 150 autoimmune disorders. While there are no cures for these disorders, Seattle Cancer Care Alliance (SCCA) provides expert care for people to maintain a high quality of life.
If your condition is one that requires a bone-marrow transplant, be sure to visit the Bone-Marrow Transplant section.
Our Expertise
SCCA is a comprehensive treatment center that provides the latest therapies with compassionate support. Our renowned specialists from Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, UW Medicine, and Seattle Children’s are working together to improve quality of life and conquer Autoimmune Diseases.Our Doctors
Our doctors are members of Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center and faculty from UW Medicine and Seattle Children’s. They are the best of the best who work as a team to care for people with Autoimmune Diseases.Treatment Options
Regardless of the stage of your illness, the unsurpassed expertise of our physicians makes SCCA the ideal treatment center for Autoimmune Diseases.What to Expect
Receiving a diagnosis for Autoimmune Diseases leads to many questions. SCCA physicians and staff provide compassionate care and support during your course of treatment so you will always know what to expect.Participate in a Study
As a world-class treatment center, SCCA provides patients with the best and most current therapies available. Clinical studies bring promising new treatments to patients faster. And participating in a study gives patients at least the best, current treatment, as well as the satisfaction that they are helping others with Autoimmune Diseases.Autoimmune Diseases Facts
Learn about the risk factors and symptoms of Autoimmune Diseases, how they are diagnosed and how their stages are determined.Patient Support
Because treatment for Autoimmune Diseases isn’t easy, special support for patients is essential. SCCA has several programs, classes, and services to assist patients and their families.Resources
The more you know about your disease, the more empowered you’ll feel. This list of reputable sources about Autoimmune Diseases makes gathering information easy.News
Cancer treatment is always improving as researchers learn more about its causes and means to prevent it. Read the latest news about research findings and medical breakthroughs here.
Bone Marrow Transplant
Find out why SCCA is the best place for bone marrow transplantation.
Find out why SCCA is the best place for bone marrow transplantation.
Patient Guide to Clinical Studies
Find out more about clinical studies, what they are, and how to participate in them.
Map & Directions
Driving directions to SCCA on South Lake Union.
Driving directions to SCCA on South Lake Union.