[Fc-receptor mediated immune complex clearance function of the mononuclear phagocyte system in systemic lupus erythematosus].

Fc receptor mediated immune complex clearance function was measured in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus. Autologous erythrocytes were sensitized by human IgG anti-Rh(D) and used as immune complex model. An impaired Fc receptor function was demonstrable in 20 of 25 investigated patients. We have found a significant correlation between the seriousness of the defect and the step of the immunologic activity of the patients, but not between the impaired Fc receptor function and clinical activity and renal manifestation in our SLE patients. Further studies are necessary to determine the relevance of this phenomenon and to clear the possibility of therapeutical influence.