Infectious agents in chronic rheumatic diseases

The possible role of infectious microoganisms in the disease process of bot h arthritis and autoimmunity continue to attract both basic and clinical re searchers. However, proving a causal role for these suspects is a very diff icult and complicated task. This article provides an update on various mech anisms in which microbes may play roles as inciting or perpetuating factors in the pathogenesis of connective tissue disease. It also focuses on curre nt theories that specific microorganisms may play a role in rheumatoid arth ritis and ankylosing spondylitis. (C) 2001 Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, I nc.