Rheumatology International is an independent journal reflecting world-wide progress in the research diagnosis and treatment of the various rheumatic diseases. It is designed to serve the international and interdisciplinary group of workers involved in problems of rheumatic diseases. Rheumatology International will cover all modern trends in clinical and experimental research as well as in the management of rheumatic diseases. Special emphasis will be given to immuno-pathogenetic mechanisms inflammatory reactions collagen metabolism genetics epidemiology therapeutic modulation of immunological and inflammatory mechanisms and development and evaluation of diagnostic procedures connected with rheumatic diseases. Contributions to these topics will appear in the form of original publications informative case reports short communications editorials and reviews. "Letters to the editor" will be welcome as an enhancement to discussion. Every effort will be made to ensure speed of publication while maintaining a high standard of contents and production.