[Sex hormones in lupus erythematosus].

In 23 male and female patients suffering from systemic lupus erythematosus (LEV) and discoid (LEI), estradiol and androgen serum levels were determined. 11 female patients showed normal levels of estrogen. 4 out of 6 patients with LEV and 1 patient with LEI showed reduced levels of testosterone. 4 out of 5 men with LEV and 4 out of 7 men with LEI showed elevated levels of estradiol. 10 out of 12 patients showed reduced levels of testosterone. These results suggest that sexual hormones may play a part in the origination and course of LEV and LEI.