[Growth factors].

Growth factors such as PDGF, VEGF and TGF-beta play a pivotal role in the regulation and differentiation of different cell types in the connective tissue, for example fibroblasts and endothelial cells, and in the immune system. Pathophysiologically, these growth factors are thought to play a central role in tumorigenesis, and the use of their inhibitors has led to substantial improvements in tumor therapy. Recent findings also support an important role for growth factors in inflammatory rheumatoid diseases. New developments in the understanding and potential role of these factors in the pathophysiology of rheumatic diseases will be discussed.