This is the fourth of a series of Symposia in Immunology which were organized to bring important new information on the expanding field of immunology to practicing physicians interested in the field. Highly renowned basic scientists share their results with physicians conducting clinical research and those experienced in the treatment of the respective diseases. This series of symposia is planned to cover different areas of immunology and will help to close the gap between special achievements of scientists and practicing physicians.

This book, the last in a series of eight proceedings volumes, presents an up-to-date overview on immunology and inflammation based on a congress held in Budapest, Hungary in April 1998. It is divided into the following sections: Basic Mechanisms, Endo- and Exotoxins, Soluble Receptors, and Treatment Perspectives.

The Symposia in Immunology were organized to bring important new information in the expanding field of immunology to practicing physicians interested in the field. Highly renowned basic scientists share their results with physicians conducting clinical research and thoses experienced in the treatment of the respective diseases. This series of symposia will cover different areas of immunology and will help to close the gap between the special achievements of scientists and the daily routine of practicing physicians.

This is the seventh symposium in a series of symposia on immunology organized by IMMUNO covering this time vaccination. This volume deals with antigen-host interaction and hepatitis immunisation, novel vaccine concepts and technologies, and vaccines for the twenty-first century.