Mechanisms of inflammation and leukocyte chemotaxis in the rheumatic diseases

Understanding the mechanisms of inflammatory cell accumulation, as well as how such cells mediate tissue destruction, provides better insights into the pathogenesis and therapeutics of the rheumatic diseases. This article discusses the role of the inflammatory process in normal immune function, the mechanisms of inflammatory cell accumulation, and how the local accumulation of inflammatory cells can lead to the clinical signs and symptoms associated with rheumatic disorders.