Pathogenetic Mechanisms of Rheumatic Disorders

Abstract

If an infectious agent proves to be the primary etiologic factor in the rheumatic diseases, it may exist among the smaller intracellular or filterable agents. Even if this concept is sustained, additional pathogenetic mechanisms probably are operative. Investigations of autoimmunity and antigen-antibody complexes have enlarged our view of immunologic mechanisms. The interrelations of complement, kinin and coagulation systems are being unraveled.