Abnormalities in T Cell Interactions with the Extracellular Matrix Proteins in a Patient with Wegener's Granulomatosis

T cell interactions with the extracellular matrix proteins and cultured human endothelium were studied in a patient with Wegener's granulomatosis and other cases of vasculitis. Markedly enhanced costimulation of T-lymphoproliferative responses mediated by collagen and fibronectin were found in patients with severe forms of vasculitis, particularly with necrotizing changes. In addition, enhanced adhesion to collagen IV was found in the Wegener patient. T cell adhesion to resting and inflamed endothelium varied from normal to increased.