What is the main difference between hypersensitivity and autoimmunity?

1 answer

The main difference between hypersensitivity and autoimmunity is that hypersensitivity is an exaggerated immune response to an external substance (such as pollen, food, or medication), while autoimmunity is when the immune system mistakenly targets and attacks the body's own healthy cells and tissues. In hypersensitivity, the immune response is triggered by an external antigen, while in autoimmunity, the immune response is directed against self-antigens.