This paper reviews the cytokine profiles and various cell adhesion molecules expressed in the more common inflammatory joint conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, the spondyloarthropathies (Reiter's syndrome, ankylosing spondylitis), as well as systemic lupus erythematosus, systemic sclerosis, Sjögren's syndrome, giant cell arteritis and polymyositis. Knowledge of the broad range of cytokines produced in these conditions and the expression of cell adhesion molecules that result from cytokine production will assist in the understanding of the pathogenesis of these conditions and may lead to new therapeutic interventions.