Oral Manifestations of Autoimmune Diseases

Autoimmune diseases arise from a complex interplay between genetic predisposition and environmental factors, including chemical exposures, infections, and psychological stress. These conditions occur when the immune system mistakenly targets the body's own healthy cells, resulting in tissue and organ damage. Both humoral and cellular immune mechanisms contribute to autoimmune disorders, leading to chronic inflammation and progressive tissue injury.Autoimmune diseases have diverse and often overlapping symptoms, significantly impacting patients' quality of life. Early diagnosis is crucial for effective disease management; however, the clinical similarity among autoimmune disorders and the lack of definitive diagnostic tests in many cases pose major challenges to timely identification.Notably, in many autoimmune conditions, oral manifestations are among the earliest or, in some cases, only clinical signs, as the oral epithelium is a frequent target of autoimmune responses. These manifestations often present as erosions and ulcers, causing pain and discomfort. Identifying oral lesions at an early stage can facilitate early diagnosis and improve patient outcomes. This chapter provides a comprehensive overview of autoimmune conditions and their oral manifestations.Since immune dysregulation is central to autoimmune disease pathogenesis, local and systemic corticosteroids are commonly prescribed to control symptoms, including oral lesions. In severe or refractory cases, immunosuppressive therapies may be essential to prevent disease progression and tissue destruction.