Tumor necrosis factor is important in systemic and cutaneous defense, homeostasis, and
many disease states. The numerous and diverse effects of tumor necrosis factor are best
understood when considered as concentration-dependent, with normal homeostasis
progressing to defense followed by toxic effects. Understanding tumor necrosis factor is
important for the dermatologist as more studies appear in our literature and potential clinical
uses of tumor necrosis factor (and possible anti-tumor necrosis factor agents) are realized.