1.   The mechanisms underlying the inflammatory process are poorly understood.

2.   No evidence for this could be found, however, with biopsy specimens showing a similar fibrotic inflammatory process affecting a number of different sites.

3.   The superoxide generated may have a direct cytotoxic effect or it may interact with inflammatory mediators to modify the inflammatory process.

4.   It remains possible, however, that these abnormalities are simply a consequence of small vessels becoming involved in the chronic inflammatory process.

5.   Both local cells and soluble mediators participate in the intestinal inflammatory process.

6.   In the individual patient, separating symptoms attributable to an active inflammatory process from those of chronic fibrotic strictures may determine whether surgery is appropriate.

7.   Fibromyalgia was thought to be an inflammatory process for many years, but in-depth scientific investigation has shown that inflammation is not a significant part of the problem.

8.   It could be, however, that the correct diagnosis has not yet been clarified and that an inflammatory process such as plantar fasciitis is the problem.