Microorganisms in the aetiology of atherosclerosis

Recent publications have suggested that infective pathogens might play an i mportant role in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. This review focuses o n these microorganisms in the process of atherosclerosis. The results of in vitro studies, animal studies, tissue studies, and serological studies wil l be summarised, followed by an overall conclusion concerning the strength of the association of the microorganism with the pathogenesis of atheroscle rosis. The role of the bacteria Chlamydia pneumoniac and Helicobacter pylor i, and the viruses human immunodeficiency virus, coxsackie B virus, cytomeg alovirus, Epstein-Barr virus, herpes simplex virus, and measles virus will be discussed.