RÔLE OF THE RETICULO-ENDOTHELIAL SYSTEM IN THE DEPOSITION OF COLLOIDAL AND PARTICULATE MATTER IN ARTICULAR CAVITIES

Many phases of the physiologic activity of the joints are still obscure. Various disturbances in functional activity and pathologic changes which come with disease are understood even less well. The formation¹ and resorption of synovial fluid, with its varying chemical² and cytologic constituents, have been carefully studied.³ The removal of cellular débris or particulate matter⁴ introduced into the joint cavity has been followed in experimental animals.⁵ Attempts have been made to study the pharmacologic action of certain drugs in relation to articular cavities.⁶ This research, while most helpful in advancing knowledge, has not determined how the articular disturbances were initiated or in what manner they could be modified or prevented.

It is commonly believed that noxious substances which disturb articular function are carried to the joints by the blood stream.⁷ Studies on lactic acid,⁸ uric acid⁹ and carbohydrate metabolism suggest this.