Leading basic and clinical investigators from around the world summarize the most recent research on the molecular and cellular origins of lupus. Their cutting-edge articles review the mechanisms underlying abnormal immunity and introduce the powerful new concept that a disorder of multiple genes underlies the abnormal immune response, leading directly to the development of lupus. This pathophysiology is shown to involve a wide variety of cell types, including T cells, B cells, natural killer cells, macrophages/monocytes, and endothelial cells. Over time, the resulting long-term inflammation causes irreversible cell destruction and, ultimately, organ failure. Lupus: Molecular and Cellular Pathogenesis is a masterful new synthesis of all the new knowledge emerging today about lupus. Its new perspectives will sharpen the focus of research and ultimately lead to better and more effective treatment.

Leading clinicians and clinical researchers discuss in practical detail the newest treatments used in rheumatic diseases, emphasizing-without neglecting current standard treatments-those experimental therapies now undergoing clinical trials and poised for early introduction into the rheumatology armamentarium. The diseases and therapeutic regimes examined here range from rheumatoid arthritis and its treatment by gene therapy, to osteoarthritis and systemic autoimune diseases. Each chapter is organized so that the busy clinician can quickly obtain all the information needed optimal patient treatment. This includes an analysis of the pathogenic mechanisms that explain the molecular basis of the newer therapeutics, reviews of animal data and the results of clinical trials, and recommendations concerning use, side effects, and precautions.

Leading basic and clinical investigators from around the world summarize the most recent research on the molecular and cellular origins of lupus. Their cutting-edge articles review the mechanisms underlying abnormal immunity and introduce the powerful new concept that a disorder of multiple genes underlies the abnormal immune response, leading directly to the development of lupus. This pathophysiology is shown to involve a wide variety of cell types, including T cells, B cells, natural killer cells, macrophages/monocytes, and endothelial cells. Over time, the resulting long-term inflammation causes irreversible cell destruction and, ultimately, organ failure. Lupus: Molecular and Cellular Pathogenesis is a masterful new synthesis of all the new knowledge emerging today about lupus. Its new perspectives will sharpen the focus of research and ultimately lead to better and more effective treatment.

Leading clinicians and clinical researchers discuss in practical detail the newest treatments used in rheumatic diseases, emphasizing-without neglecting current standard treatments-those experimental therapies now undergoing clinical trials and poised for early introduction into the rheumatology armamentarium. The diseases and therapeutic regimes examined here range from rheumatoid arthritis and its treatment by gene therapy, to osteoarthritis and systemic autoimune diseases. Each chapter is organized so that the busy clinician can quickly obtain all the information needed optimal patient treatment. This includes an analysis of the pathogenic mechanisms that explain the molecular basis of the newer therapeutics, reviews of animal data and the results of clinical trials, and recommendations concerning use, side effects, and precautions.