An example of an organ-specific disease associated with autoimmune antibodies is?

Prepare for the ASCP Technologist in Immunology Exam with our quizzes. Explore flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each paired with hints and explanations to bolster your exam readiness and confidence.

Hashimoto thyroiditis is characterized as an organ-specific autoimmune disease because it primarily targets the thyroid gland, leading to its dysfunction or damage. In this condition, the immune system produces antibodies that attack the thyroid tissue, resulting in hypothyroidism. This focus on the thyroid is what categorizes Hashimoto's as organ-specific, as opposed to systemic autoimmune diseases, which affect multiple organs and systems throughout the body.

In contrast, systemic lupus erythematosus, multiple sclerosis, and type 1 diabetes can involve multiple systems and are not limited to a single organ. While type 1 diabetes does primarily affect insulin production in the pancreas, it is still classified as more systemic due to its wide-ranging effects on glucose metabolism and potential complications affecting various body systems. Hashimoto thyroiditis remains the clearest example of an autoimmune disorder with a targeted effect on a specific organ, thus making it the correct answer.

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