[Early rheumatoid synovitis and its evolution]

Abstract

The clinical and morphological evidence of rheumatoid synovitis of 3 months to 5 years duration was analyzed. Its early lesions were characterized by angiomatosis, vasculopathy, and proliferation of synoviocytes and fibroblasts. Protein infiltrates contained IgG and C3 complement. Herpes simplex was detected in the vessels and synoviocytes. Structural changes may be explained by immune mechanisms and by infectious agents as well. Chronic inflammation, vasculitis, and sclerosis were prevalent in late rheumatoid synovitis. Lymphoid follicles, macrophages, and endothelial proliferation can be markers for infectious persistence.