Prostaglandins and their precursors in rheumatoid arthritis: progress and problems

Evidence is presented to support the hypothesis that prostaglandins and their precursors, collectively termed prostanoids, have an important role to play in the pathogenesis of joint destruction in arthritis, with particular reference to rheumatoid arthritis. After discussion of the role of prostanoids as mediators of inflammation, evidence is given that prostanoids are present in the joints of patients with rheumatoid arthritis, that these substances are capable of causing joint damage in vitro and in vivo, and that drugs which are able to arrest the progress of the arthritic condition or bring symptomatic relief possess the ability to inhibit prostanoid synthesis in vivo and in vitro.