[The nosological status of "chronic secondary polyarthritis"].

The existence of the entity known in some parts of Europe as chronic secondary polyarthritis has been the subject of considerable dispute. In 1964 the World Health Organization invited Professor E. G. L. Bywaters to visit various European centres where the term is still employed and cases are still reported, to discuss the condition with the authorities on the spot and to examine cases and records. The report that follows has been seen by the authorities listed in the Annex, who were visited by the author or with whom he corresponded or held discussions, and he has taken their comments into consideration in its preparation.