A disease that affects multiple organs, tissues, or body systems rather than being confined to one localized area.
A systemic disease can affect the body broadly through processes such as inflammation, infection, abnormal immune activity, hormonal disturbances, or disorders of the blood and circulation. Some systemic diseases begin in one part of the body but produce effects elsewhere.
For example, systemic lupus erythematosus can affect the skin, joints, kidneys, blood, lungs, nervous system, and other organs. By contrast, a localized skin infection may remain primarily confined to one area.
QUICK FACT
“Systemic” describes the extent or distribution of a disease, not necessarily how severe it is.
COMMONLY CONFUSED WITH
Localized disease: A localized disease primarily affects a particular body area, organ, or tissue, whereas a systemic disease can involve multiple parts of the body.
SEE ALSO