Figure 3.

Pathogenesis of idiopathic chronic inflammatory conditions (ICIC). Shown are some of the factors that can affect the systemic immune compartment and contribute to the development of ICIC (only few are listed). Note the reduced regulatory function of the systemic compartment as a common mechanism in pathogenesis of ICIC. Also, note the influence of age and gender. ASTH = asthma; COPD = chronic obstructive pulmonary disease; ILD = interstitial lung disease; RA = rheumatoid arthritis; IBD = inflammatory bowel disease; SLE = systemic lupus erythematosus; MS = multiple sclerosis.