Enteric Microorganisms in Rheumatoid Diseases: Causative Agents and Possible Mechanisms.

The role of foodborne enteric pathogens in the development of three seronegative spondarthropathies (ankylosing spondylitis, Reiter's disease and reactive arthritis) is discussed. Although the prevalence of the HLA-B27 antigen in blood-related individuals suggests a genetic predisposition to these diseases, exogenous environmental factors are also indicated. A clinical profile is given to clarify certain relationships of the seronegative arthropathies. Evidence of the involvement of enteric pathogens in the onset of these conditions following gastrointestinal illness is considered along with the interactions of general and molecular mechanisms of the disease processes and the immune response.