Systemic lupus erythematosus - a state of hyperinterferonemia?

On the basis of immunologic and microbiologic data as well as recent observations it is postulated that interferon is responsible for many of the clinical signs and symptoms in systemic lupus erythematosus such as alopecia, joint manifestations, fever and leukopenia. Recognition of the important role of interferon in active systemic lupus erythematosus leads to some practical conclusions: a) a new therapeutic approach to active lupus must consider a treatment which will lead to reduced interferon activity; b) one of the laboratory parameters of activity of the disease may be interferon measurements.