Autoimmunity caused by xenobiotics

A number of clinical reports and experimental studies have shown that autoimmune responses and/or autoimmune diseases are induced in humans and laboratory animals by chronic exposure to various chemicals. The present review is focused on the most frequent groups of chemically induced human disorders. Results obtained from studies of the available counterparts of these diseases, i.e. those models obtained from the exposure of laboratory animals to various chemicals are analyzed. Although significant progress has been achieved to the realization that environmental agents may cause profound changes in our immune system and result in autoimmune disease, epidemiological, clinical and experimental work is still needed to acquire a better understanding of the mechanisms involved. (C) 1997 Elsevier Science Ireland Ltd.