Detection of immune complexes in polymyositis

Abstract

There is good evidence to suggest a role for immunological factors in the pathogenesis of polymyositis although the exact mechanism and type of immunological disorder is unknown. The specific cellular and humoral hypersensitivity to muscle antigens described is most likely to represent an epiphenomenon. Thirty-three patients with polymyositis, with or without skin involvement, were investigated for the presence of circulating immune complexes: positive results were obtained in 70% of the group.