Orofacial pain considerations in autoimmune disorders: narrative review

Abstract

Immunity is an essential self-defensive mechanism comprised of biological structures and processes within an organism that protects it against invasive microorganism, viruses, malignancies and diseases (1,2). Malfunction of the immune system can cause the self-destruction of its own cells, tissues, and organs resulting in autoimmune diseases (AD) (2). Approximately, 5% of the population worldwide and 3% of US population suffer from AD imposing a significant burden of morbidity and mortality (1,3).Scientific research and literatures have provided substantial advancements in our understanding of human autoimmunity that have led to improvements in classification, diagnosis and management of the diseases (1-3). Tissue damage in AD is an exaggerated responses of the immune system towards self-antigens (1). Evidence suggests that antigens released by bacteria, viruses, toxins, blood, and tissue can trigger an