Autoimmune disease: the consequence of deficient T-cell function?

The age-related decrease in T-lymphocyte function is discussed in relation to the onset of autoimmune disease. It is postulated that the decrease in T-cell "immune surveillance" permits: a) the ingress of viruses whose enzymes modify host glycoproteins and render them immunogenic, and b) the replication of viruses incorporated into the genome of cells during infections in early life. The existence of immunodeficiencies too subtle to be detected by our present laboratory methods is postulated and discussed in relation to diseases observed in geriatric patients. It would seem that the prevention of some geriatric diseases should begin in the pediatrician's office.