Autoimmune diseases (ADs) have a complex genetic background and multiple genes can contribute to disease risk. ADs are likely induced by interactions between genetic elements and epigenetic changes caused by environmental factors including infections. Indeed, epigenetic mechanisms have been implicated in disrupting immune tolerance and inducing autoreactive responses. 
An increased risk of haematological malignancies, compared with the general population, was found among patients with ADs suggesting a possible link between cancer and ADs