Fact 9: Autoimmune Links
At its core, microscopic colitis is believed to have ties with the immune system. While it’s not classified as a classic autoimmune disease, certain underlying mechanisms suggest an autoimmune component, where the body mistakenly attacks its cells.
While the exact cause remains elusive, some theories suggest that a virus or bacteria might trigger the immune response leading to microscopic colitis. This response, instead of just targeting the foreign invaders, also attacks the lining of the colon, causing inflammation.
Studies have highlighted that individuals with microscopic colitis often have other autoimmune disorders. Conditions like celiac disease, rheumatoid arthritis, or thyroid disorders tend to overlap, suggesting a shared underlying immune dysfunction.
Understanding the autoimmune connection has implications for treatment. Immunosuppressive drugs, which modulate or suppress the immune response, have found their place in the therapeutic arsenal against microscopic colitis, especially in more challenging cases.(9)
