Perception of self : Distinguishing autoimmunity from autoinflammation

The distinction between autoimmunity and autoinflammation has become an important issue in rheumatic diseases. The mechanisms by which the immune system is tolerant to self-antigens—and how this tolerance can be lost in some situations—is a central point in this distinction. In this Review, van Kempen et al. explores the different pathways at work in autoimmune and autoinflammatory diseases, and how this knowledge might help improve treatment strategies.