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Rheumatoid Arthritis – The Immaculate Infection

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA), long considered a purely autoimmune disorder, is increasingly recognized as a disease potentially initiated or modulated by microbial triggers. The provocative phrase “the immaculate infection” underscores the possibility that infection—without overt illness—might be the inciting event in genetically susceptible individuals. This review explores microbial agents implicated in RA, including Porphyromonas gingivalis, Prevotella copri, Epstein-Barr virus, and Mycoplasma species. I discuss mechanisms such as molecular mimicry, citrullination, and dysbiosis, and consider the therapeutic and diagnostic implications of an infectious model for RA.

Source: Fortune Journal of Rheumatology

DOI: 10.26502/fjr.26880047

Author: J. Kelly Smith

Language: English

Topic: Rheumatoid Arthritis Research and Therapies

Subfield: Rheumatology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: diamond

OpenAlex ID: W4411560627

FWCI:

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Related to: 10