What autoimmune disease is associated with Campylobacter infection?

The association of Campylobacter infection with Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) is well-documented in medical literature. Campylobacter is a type of bacteria that can cause gastrointestinal illness, and in a subset of patients, it may trigger an autoimmune response. This response can lead to the onset of Guillain-Barré Syndrome, a rare neurological disorder in which the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the peripheral nervous system, leading to muscle weakness and, in severe cases, paralysis.

The mechanism underlying this connection involves molecular mimicry, where the antibodies created in response to the Campylobacter bacteria cross-react with nerve components because of structural similarities, thereby damaging the peripheral nerves. The presence of GBS after a Campylobacter infection highlights the importance of monitoring and understanding post-infectious complications that can arise from such bacterial illnesses.

The other conditions listed do not have a direct and strong link with Campylobacter infection in the same way that Guillain-Barré Syndrome does. This specificity underscores the relevance of understanding the relationship between certain infections and autoimmune disorders for both preventive measures and potential treatment outcomes.