The role of histocompatibility antigens (HLA) in infection.

We have tried to describe and evaluate in epidemiologic terms what has been done in less than a decade to define the influence of a unique genetic system on susceptibility and response to infection. The extent of its influence on disease susceptibility has only begun to be measured, and our understanding of the mechanistic and functional aspects of HLA and disease association is in its infancy. We hope it is clear from the foregoing review that the immunogeneticist, the epidemiologist, and the biostatistician all have much to offer each other as the work progresses.