[Model concepts on the development of so-called autoimmune diseases]

The etiology and pathogeneses of autoimmune diseases are only known in a few examples such as myasthenia gravis, some thyroid affections or some forms of pemphigus. This review uses a few experimental models to argue that many autoimmune diseases, particularly those mediated by or dependent upon T cells, may represent immunopathologies triggered by either trivial or unrecognized special infectious agents. In those instances where we know the etiologic agent we call the ensuing disease immunopathological, and in those where we do not know the agent we call it autoimmune.