CAPS (Cryopyrin-Associated Periodic Syndrome): Autoinflammatory Disease
Normally, the immune system releases IL-1ß, among other substances, to fight off "foreign" invaders such as germs, viruses, and particles like pollen or other allergens. These foreign invaders are known as antigens.
In autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, multiple sclerosis, and Crohn's disease, the immune response is provoked by autoantibodies, proteins that attack the body's own healthy tissue. Once the attack starts, it cannot be switched off and thus becomes a chronic disease.
But in the different forms of CAPS (cryopyrin-associated periodic syndrome), the immune system produces inflammation even though there is no threat from antigens or autoantibodies. This inflammation is caused by overproduction of IL-1ß due to a mutated gene.
Scientists have made great progress in understanding the genetic changes that start the chain of events that triggers inflammatory reactions in all 3 forms of CAPS (cryopyrin-associated periodic syndrome). This exciting research has helped in the development of new therapies that may help symptoms to lessen or even disappear for a span of time.
