Abstract

Stress is considered to be both a trigger of autoimmune diseases and a factor which contributes to disease exacerbation. Emotional stress before the disease onset is reported by up to 80% of patients suffering from autoaggressive diseases. A significant increase in the prevalence of autoimmune diseases in recent years and the growing number of stressors in our daily lives, including the work environment, raise a question about a link between psychological stress and autoimmune disorders. Therefore, the objective of this paper is to highlight the potential role of stress in both development and exacerbation of autoimmune diseases. The potential mechanisms by which stress can affect autoimmunity are characterised. In particular, the focus is on rheumatic diseases, autoimmune endocrine disorders, multiple sclerosis, and psoriasis. In addition, the role of post-traumatic stress disorder is underlined, as well as the possible association between stress present in the work environment and the development of autoimmune diseases among employees.

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