The vascular endothelial system in the pathogenesis of inflammation and systemic rheumatic diseases: Relation to the neuroendocrine system.

The endocrine system contributes to the pathogenesis of several autoimmune- inflammatory conditions. We review the role of hormones on the vascular sys tem and its participation in inflammation. Estrogens have potent influences on vascular homeostasis. Connective tissue diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus are much more prevalent in women, although, estrogens parado xically may protect women from susceptibility to cardiovascular diseases. S tudies of endothelium in vitro also reflect this paradox. Estrogen metaboli tes, depending on the concentration, can both stimulate or inhibit endothel ial proliferation and tube formation.