Serodiagnosis with antigens of Treponema pallidum in lupus erythematosus.

Abstract

Lupus erythematosus of the fixed variety rarely presents difficulties to the trained observer. Until recently, the same could not be said regarding the generalized or systemic form of the disease now generally designated as disseminated or systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). It is only with the introduction of the newer laboratory aids that formerly obscure conditions have been properly identified and classified as belonging to a group of systemic diseases of which systemic lupus erythematosus is perhaps the most important and the commonest member. The early detection of SLE has been made possible by the L. E. phenomenon and the correct interpretation of the biologic false-positive (BFP) reaction that are observed in this disease. The relatively high incidence of systemic lupus erythematosus noted in recent years is probably not due to an actual increase in the number of cases but to better diagnosis from the now available clinical