Recent Advances in Rheumatic Diseases: 1967 Through 1969

Abstract

Clinical highlights of the rheumatologic literature in the English language, 1967 through 1969, are presented. Substantial interest has developed in the possibility of an infectious genesis of rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and Reiter's syndrome. Extensive studies on the rheumatoid synovial reaction have led to a better understanding of associated immune phenomena. Determination of synovial-fluid complement can be of diagnostic help in rheumatoid arthritis, and serum-complement value is a valuable guide to activity of the disease in systemic lupus erythematosus. Hyperuricemia caused by inherited enzyme deficiencies and also resulting from certain renal factors is elucidated. Urate-protein binding may play a significant role in gout. Many advances have been made in understanding and recognition of rheumatologic disease patterns in other entities.