[Cluster analysis of 109 patients with systemic lupus erythematosus]

Using a grouping method we studied the disease homogeneity within a group of 109 patients with systemic lupus erythematosus. The mean observation period was 6 years and 8 months. By using a cluster analysis, the total group of patients could be subdivided into two subgroups which differed clearly in their symptomatology. One subgroup (n = 42) showed higher incidence of elevated serum creatinine values, proteinuria, oral ulceration and severe anaemia. All 13 deaths occurred in this group. The second group (n = 67) was characterized by a more benign course of disease, a notably decreased incidence of renal involvement, and the Raynaud's Phenomenon was comparatively frequent.