Multiple serologic reactions and their relationship to clinical activity in systemic lupus erythematosus.

Analysis of the binding of serum from 56 systemic lupus erythematosus patients to native DNA (nDNA), denatured DNA (dDNA), poly I, poly(dT), RNA, and cardiolipin revealed multiple antigen binding in many of the sera. Raised levels of antibodies (IgG and/or IgM) to denatured DNA were found in the highest percentage (68%) of patients. A small subset of patients with multiple raised IgM antibodies, renal disease, and vasculitic skin rash was identified. No correlation between multiple serologic activity and clinical disease was found.