Autoimmune disease care

Autoimmune diseases occur when the immune system, which normally protects you from viruses, bacteria, and other harmful substances, mistakes your own healthy cells for invaders. This can lead to inflammation and damage affecting multiple organs and a range of debilitating symptoms. Autoimmune diseases can be complex, and people with these conditions often need coordinated care across specialties.

At Penn Medicine, specialists in rheumatology, dermatology, nephrology, neurology, pulmonology, gastroenterology, and more work together to deliver comprehensive, connected care. Patients also benefit from our leadership in research, with access to clinical trials and emerging therapies for autoimmune disease.

The Lupus Program provides comprehensive care for people living with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), a complex autoimmune disease that can involve multiple systems throughout the body and cause a wide range of symptoms. Because lupus care often requires input from many specialists, the program brings together rheumatologists, dermatologists, nephrologists, pulmonologists, and others in a coordinated, team-based model. Patients benefit from an extensive network of services, including pain management, psychiatry, physical therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy. In addition to advanced clinical care, the program is closely connected to research and clinical trials, giving access to new treatment options.

Your ally in managing autoimmune disease

Penn Medicine stands apart in caring for people with autoimmune disorders because of our depth of expertise and the resources we bring together for each patient.

• Specialty centers for rare diseases: Penn offers access to specialized care centers for rare autoimmune diseases such as relapsing polychondritis, vasculitis, scleroderma, antiphospholipid antibody syndrome, and Sjögren’s disease. Through these dedicated programs, patients benefit from experts who see some of the highest volumes of these conditions in the country and offer advanced care options.
• Expertise across conditions: Our rheumatologists and autoimmune specialists bring deep experience in diagnosing and managing both common and rare disorders.
• Innovative therapies and clinical trials: We lead the way in autoimmune disease care and research, offering access to the latest options, including novel biologics, targeted therapies, and new approaches such as CAR T-cell therapy for autoimmune disease.
• Comprehensive arthritis and autoimmune disease care: For those who live with both arthritis and autoimmune conditions, we provide complete care that addresses all aspects of joint, immune, and systemic health.