Sources of autoimmune diseases can be recognized in the arts and the literature alike. Signs of diseases can also be observed on many human bone remains, verified by methods of paleopathology. Until the middle of the 20th century, it was not fully realized that the immune system could act not only against foreign cells but also against its own as well. Both genetic and environmental factors can play a role in developing autoimmune diseases. A series of discoveries in immunology contributed to the identification of nearly 100 autoimmune conditions in our days, which affect 3-5% of the world's population. Continuous development and the latest therapeutic procedures support the patients to achieve a better quality of life.  Kulcsszavak: autoimmun beteségek, történetiség, fejlődés