[Optimizing the clinical value of polyreactive autoantibodies to double-stranded DNA]

The serological characteristic of systemic lupus erythematosus is the presence of antibodies to double stranded (ds) DNA. Raised levels of these antibodies have been found occasionally in patients with other inflammatory rheumatic diseases. Evaluating 67 patients with anti-dsDNA antibodies we searched for additionally immunological features to improve their clinical relevance for connective tissue diseases. We found out that coexistent antinuclear antibodies, antibodies to Sm, U1-nRNP, Ro and La, except in D-penicillamine induced lupus syndrome, were most specific for connective tissue diseases. Permanent antinuclear antibody negative systemic lupus erythematosus may not really exist.