Multiple Autoimmune Syndrome (MAS)

Clinically Relevant Anatomy

Multiple autoimmune syndrome is a condition in which at least three separate autoimmune diseases have been identified in a person.[1].Autoimmune diseases are chronic disabling conditions that occur when the evolution of one’s own immune system. Any once healthy cells and organs can do it are involved and may induce physiological changes depending on the autoimmune disease diagnosed. Examples of autoimmune disease include; fibromyalgia syndrome; Human Immunodeficiency Syndrome (HIV); Lyme disease Lyme disease; Lupus Erythematosus; Nerve Diseases; Psoriatic Arthritis.

Injury Mechanism/Pathological Process

The pathogenesis of MAS is unknown, but environmental infectious psychogenetics and immunological susceptibility are currently being investigated.

[2]

A three-group classification has been developed to group together autoimmune diseases that tend to occur together. They are referred to simply as Type 1 MAS, Type 2 MAS, or Type 3 MAS

Type 1 MAS includes myasthenia gravis, thymoma, polymyositis, and giant cell myocarditis

Type 2 MAS includes Sjögren syndrome RA scleroderma autoimmune thyroid disease.

Type 3 MAS includes SLE DM1 Sjogren’s syndrome Addison’s disease Vitiligo Dermatitis herpetiformis Autoimmune thyroid disease. [1]

Clinical Presentation

When a person is receiving physical therapy related to an autoimmune disorder or has an autoimmune disorder diagnosed in their medical history, be sure to examine the possibility in others [may require further investigation]. This is important because as many as one in four people with Autoimmune disease has a tendency to develop into another disease [1] For clinical manifestations of specific autoimmune diseases, please follow the previous link

Outcome Measures

The outcome measure chosen will vary according to the autoimmune disease present.

(See Individual Autoimmune Status Outcome Measures)

Management / Interventions

For clients with chronic autoimmune disease, physical therapy can be very beneficial for ailments related to the condition. [3]

For individual autoimmune diseases, the physical therapy regimen will be the same, but for MAS, a holistic view of long-term education is more necessary than ever.

Symptoms such as joint swelling, muscle wasting, increased risk of falls due to loss of nervous system coordination, pain, fatigue, inflammatory isolation, and depression can all be addressed. [4]

A tailored physical activity program is an excellent way to boost energy levels, reduce stress, increase one’s sense of well-being, and countless physiological benefits. Specific and general techniques can be employed, such as individually tailored exercise programs, pain education, spa Balance Training Energy Eating Meal Plan/Suggested Group Workouts Participation in goal-directed activities. [3]

A tailored walking plan is often an option.

[5]

Finally note that with chronic life-altering conditions it is important to take a holistic approach that includes specific and varied physical therapy skills, good patient education and family/caregiver involvement.