epitope spreading
Progressive immune recognition of additional antigenic determinants during autoimmune disease development in pediatric patients.
Full Definition
The phenomenon whereby an immune response initially directed against a single epitope subsequently expands to recognize additional epitopes on the same antigen or other antigens. In pediatric autoimmune diseases, epitope spreading explains disease progression and the development of multiple autoantibodies over time. This concept is particularly relevant in understanding conditions like juvenile dermatomyositis and systemic lupus erythematosus, where autoantibody profiles may evolve during disease course.
Usage
Usage note: Always hyphenate when used as a compound noun; 'epitope' derives from Greek and should not be capitalized mid-sentence.
In Context
- "Epitope spreading in the patient's lupus was evidenced by the appearance of new autoantibodies during follow-up." — rheumatology consultation
- "The study documented epitope spreading as a mechanism of disease progression in juvenile myositis." — research publication