RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN ANTI-DNA ANTIBODIES, COMPLEMENT CONSUMPTION AND CIRCULATING IMMUNE-COMPLEXES IN SYSTEMIC LUPUS-ERYTHEMATOSUS

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  • 1 January 1977
    • journal article
    • research article
    • Vol. 28  (2) , 226-232
Abstract
Eighty-nine sera from 19 patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) were studied to determine the relationship between levels of DNA-binding activity, complement (C) consumption and evidence of circulating immune complexes. There was a good correlation between the height of DNA binding, a rising C3i [complement component 3 breakdown product] and a reciprocal fall in C3, C4 and CH50 [total hemolytic C] levels. These latter measurements provided useful supplemental information when studied serially. There was a good correlation between the results of the various methods used for the detection of circulating immune complexes, and these were found in almost half the sera with DNA binding over 70%. Serial studies of DNA binding, C levels and direct tests for immune complexes, may provide valuable information in the management of patients with SLE.