The Symposia in Immunology were organized to bring important new information in the expanding field of immunology to practicing physicians interested in the field. Highly renowned basic scientists share their results with physicians conducting clinical research and thoses experienced in the treatment of the respective diseases. This series of symposia will cover different areas of immunology and will help to close the gap between the special achievements of scientists and the daily routine of practicing physicians.

The proceedings of a symposium which aimed both to explore research developments in immunology and to provide scientists and practising physicians with an overview of each other's achievements.

This is the fourth of a series of Symposia in Immunology which were organized to bring important new information on the expanding field of immunology to practicing physicians interested in the field. Highly renowned basic scientists share their results with physicians conducting clinical research and those experienced in the treatment of the respective diseases. This series of symposia is planned to cover different areas of immunology and will help to close the gap between special achievements of scientists and practicing physicians.

This work covers topics which range from basic mechanisms, such as the molecular anatomy of autoimmune diseases, to the modern diagnosis, therapy, treatment and prevention of viral infections. It provides an overview of clinical studies, epidemiological data and their interrelationship.

This volume, the last in a series of eight proceedings volumes, presents an overview on immunology and inflammation based on a congress held in Budapest in April 1998. It is divided into sections on: basic mechanisms; endo and exotoxins; soluble receptors; and treatment perspectives.