Role of Immune Mechanisms in Cardiovascular Disease

This volume presents and state-of-the-art in the involvement of the immune system in myocardial and vascular diseases. In the field of myocarditis, both virological and immunological findings are presented, and the interactions between the virus and the immune system are discussed. Since the cellular immune system and its mediators play an important role in the inflammation by bacteria that cause endocarditis and septic shock, studies investigating the underlying pathomechanisms are described. Another major topic described in the book is the involvement of the immune system in arteriosclerosis and coronary heart disease. The final chapter of the book addresses the question of therapeutic options, presenting new approaches for a specific and effective treatment.