Review of classification criteria for systemic lupus erythematosus.

The American College of Rheumatology classification criteria were devised in 1982. In 1997, the immunologic disorder criterion was revised by a committee (without validation). All 11 criteria in the American College of Rheumatology criteria set have limitations. One of the most important laboratory tests, hypocomplementemia, was excluded entirely. Other classification criteria, emphasizing weighting or recursive partitioning, exist, but they are more cumbersome. Revised criteria are needed, not just for systemic lupus erythematosus, but also for chronic cutaneous lupus.