Arthritis affects over 100 million people worldwide, in every race, ethnic group and economic class. Yet the advances being made in arthritis research are known only to key specialists in the field. Because very few people understand the many diseases that make up arthritis, billions of dollars are wasted each year on unorthodox remedies, and the problems remain obscured by myth and prejudice. This book - intended to dispel the mystique and folklore surrounding this group of diseases - explains the scientific aspects of arthritis research and treatment to general readers. Derrick Brewerton brings together a vast amount of knowlwdge that is not readily available, and presents it in a narrative designed to be as lively as it is informative. Brewerton tells the story of arthritis research, from the days before germs were recognized as causes of disease and when the reasons for inflammation were obscure, to the present, when breakthroughs in genetics, epidemiology, X-ray crystallography, cell biology, and molecular biology support major advances in research and treatment. As he leads readers through the historic search for cures, Brewerton introduces relevant basic information on diagnosis, the role of germs and bacteria, body defenses, the nervous system, hormones, DNA, RNA, proteins, crystals, and cells. He also addresses the human element, discussing age, gender, emotions, pain and personality. Brewerton ends his story on a hopeful note, carefully explaining the prospects for prevention and treatment.