Activation of synovial fibroblasts in rheumatoid arthritis
Article Abstract:
Considerable evidence suggests that active fibroblasts within the joint play a role in triggering or sustaining the destructive processes of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Fibroblasts are connective tissue forming cells that, when stimulated, can multiply and secrete inflammatory process modulating substances. Fibroblasts do not appear to proliferate to any great degree in RA. However, cartilage digesting enzymes can be shown to be distributed in the same areas of the joint lining where fibroblasts accumulate. Stimulated fibroblasts produce excess amounts of collagen, the major component of scar tissue, and scar tissue within the joint is also a feature of RA. Animal experiments suggest that activated fibroblasts from RA patients can destroy cartilage and bone within joints. Activated fibroblasts tend to occur in close association with white blood cells that are inflammatory reaction mediators. This suggests that these cells affect each other via secretion of inflammatory modulating substances.
Publication Name: Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0003-4967
Year: 1995
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Treatment of refractory juvenile chronic arthritis by monoclonal CD4 antibodies: a pilot study in two children
Article Abstract:
Treatment with CD4 antibodies may give short-term benefits to patients with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA). CD4 T cells are immune response cells that may contribute to the development of rheumatoid arthritis. Doctors gave two sets of intravenous CD4 antibody treatments to two adolescent patients with JRA. One patient experienced an immediate reduction in joint swelling, morning stiffness, and fever. The second patient experienced similar improvement in symptoms after the second course of treatment. CD4 T cell levels decreased significantly in both patients immediately following treatment but returned to normal within weeks of each treatment. Both patients could reduce or eliminate corticosteroid medication with anti-CD4 treatment. The only side effects were one episode of hives and a brief fever with chills. Both patients produced antibodies to the mouse antibody used for the CD4 antibody preparation.
Publication Name: Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0003-4967
Year: 1995
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Detection of multiple viral DNA species in synovial tissue and fluid of patients with early arthritis
Article Abstract:
Many patients with arthritis and other inflammatory diseases have viruses in their joint fluid, according to a study of 73 patients. The viruses included cytomegalovirus, parvovirus B19, Epstein-Barr virus, and herpes simplex virus.
Publication Name: Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0003-4967
Year: 2000
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