Role of enteric bacteria in the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis: evidence for antibodies to enterobacterial common antigens in rheumatoid sera and synovial fluids
Article Abstract:
The formation of antibodies to E. coli may be a trigger for the formation of the autoimmune antibodies that cause rheumatoid arthritis (RA). E. Coli commonly colonizes the intestines. Blood samples from 83 RA patients and joint fluid samples from 58 RA patients had significantly increased antibody levels against E. coli compared with blood samples from 62 healthy volunteers and joint samples from 31 osteoarthritis patients. This supports other evidence that RA develops in susceptible persons when antibodies against intestinal bacteria begin attacking collagen, a major component of joint cartilage.
Publication Name: Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0003-4967
Year: 1996
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Rheumatoid arthritis: a synovial disease?
Article Abstract:
The initial damage in rheumatoid arthritis may be an autoimmune reaction to type II collagen in joints. This might in turn trigger an inflammation of the synovial membranes that is thought to be the underlying cause of the disease.
Publication Name: Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0003-4967
Year: 1999
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