During the past 50 years, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) has been the main subject in the field of immunopathology. Each individual discovery was followed by the discovery of a multitude of related immune phenomena. This book reflects the present status of our understanding of this protean disease. Various animal models clearly show that different gene combinations can lead to the final clinical expression of SLE, with HLA class II genes probably responsible for the targeting of the autoimmune response. Similarly, research on cytokines in SLE patients has shown that SLE is a syndrome depending on different pathways. Finally, the question of prognosis is discussed. Fortunately, with every passing decade, the prognosis for patients with SLE gets better and better.

Mechanisms of genetic control of murine systemic lupus erythematosus

The role of cytokines in the immunopathogenesis of lupus
The cytokine network in the pathogenesis of systemic lupus erythematosus and possible therapeutic implications
Antibodies to CD45 and other cell membrane antigens in systemic lupus erythematosus
Antigenic specificities of "antiphospholipid" autoantibodies
Antiphospholipid antibodies and the antiphospholipid syndrome
Lupus pregnancies and neonatal lupus
Systemic lupus erythematosus in children
Systemic lupus erythematosus - disease management
Drug combination therapy of systemic lupus erythematosus
Central nervous system involvement in systemic lupus erythematosus: a new therapeutic approach with intrathecal dexamethasone and methotrexate
Extracorporeal photochemotherapy for the treatment of lupus erythematosus: preliminary observations
Immunological intervention reveals reciprocal roles for tumor necrosis factor-? and interleukin-10 in rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus
Prognosis in systemic lupus erythematosus.