The relationship between infection and arthritis has occupied the attention of everybody throughout the history of investigative rheu matology, no less today than formerlyl. The present issue is a com pilation of essays reflecting some of the facets of this particular diamond and I am especially grateful to authors and publishers alike in the unusual and tragic circumstances which attended its preparation. We were all stunned and saddened by the untimely death of Pro fessor John Calabro which deprived us of a good friend and wise counsellor as well as a much esteemed professional colleague. Prof. Calabro's contribution to medicine was considerable, spanning highly individual, exemplary and caring clinical management, enthusiastic charismatic teaching at all levels and major contributions to research particularly in the field of juvenile arthritis. As with Robert Burns, whose works John knew, "when will we see his like again?." A personal sadness is that I was looking forward to welcoming John and his wife to "Geordieland." There is a strong tradition of the highest level of competitive ballroom dancing here and John was looking forward to visiting us and demonstrating the considerable skills which he and his wife displayed in this arena. To his wife and family we all extend our heartfelt condolences. W. CARSON DICK 1. Atkin, S., Walker, D., Mander, M., Malcolm, A. and Dick, W. Carson. (1988). Observation on the causes of rheumatoid arthritis. Br. J. Rheumatol., 27 (Suppl."

Ankylosing spondylitis, the third most common form of chronic arthritis, is a systemic rheumatic disorder characterized by inflam mation of the axial skeleton (spine and sacroiliac joints), and a host of systemic manifestations. With comprehensive care, the vast majority of patients can lead full, productive lives. However, management can succeed only with patient education and exercise. Recent communication from my co-editor, Carson Dick, serves to remind me that there are several unresolved issues concerning drug therapy in ankylosing spondylitis. Clearly, in spite of my views, there are others who do not believe that the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) alter favorably the course of disease and they must be administered for prolonged periods and in anti-inflammatry quan tities to be effective. I would agree with Carson Dick that aspirin and phenylbutazone are way down the list of drug priorities following the marketing of other NSAIDs that are effective and safer. I am grateful to my contributors to this volume, all recognized authorities on their particular topic. It has been a privilege col laborating with them on this particular volume. ABOUT THE EDITOR John J. Calabro, MD, is Professor of Medicine and Pediatrics at the University of Massachusetts Medical School and Director of Rheumatology at Saint Vincent Hospital, both in Worcester, Mas sachusetts, USA. He is the author of over 260 scientific articles, including several monographs and a book on arthritis for patients."