Abstract: | Immune complexes formed in the circulation are believed to be the principal pathogenetic agents in certain human diseases, notably in various forms of glomerulonephritis and arteritis. Criteria for the recognition of immune complex deposits in tissue are discussed and recently developed sensitive methods that detect circulating immune complexes are reviewed. In addition, the evidence implicating certain antigens and causative agents in human immune complex mediated glomerulonephritis and arteritis is evaluated. |