In the pathogenesis of anti-neutrophil cytoplasm antibodies (ANCA)-associated vasculitis, T cell contribution is indicated by T cell-dependent ANCA production combined with the presence of T cells in inflammatory infiltrates. However, the exact pathogenic role of T cells in ANCA-associated vasculitis remains to be determined. The Th1/Th2 concept is useful for understanding T cell involvement in pathological processes. This review focuses on T cells and particularly the Th1/Th2 paradigm in ANCA-associated vasculitis. Most research has been done in Wegener's granulomatosis, where a shift in T cell response, from a Th1 pattern in localized disease towards a Th0/Th2 pattern in generalized disease, appears to occur. Although less thoroughly studied, data in Churg-Strauss syndrome and microscopic polyangiitis indicate that these diseases are predominantly associated with Th2 patterns. Further studies elucidating the true nature of the polarization towards Th1 or Th2 in ANCA-associated vasculitis are clearly needed.
Copyright 2003 S. Karger AG, Basel