To estimate concentrations of cholesterol (CS) and immune complexes (IC) in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), we examined 20 new SLE cases (all women, mean age 30.2 +/- 6.6 years, duration of the disease 2.6 +/- 1.5 years) with no history of corticosteroids treatment. The control group of 20 healthy patients was matched by age, body mass index and absence of risk factors. CS in IC precipitates was estimated by enzyme assays (kits by Boehrinnger Mannheim GmbH, Germany). The level of CS-containing IC (CS-IC) was significantly higher in SLE patients (11.9 +/- 2.7 mcg/ml) versus controls (6.0 +/- 2.2 mcg/ml, p < 0.05). The lipid spectrum was similar in the patients and controls. A significant positive correlation was registered between LDP CS and CS-IC levels (r = 0.774; p = 0.041). Association with other indices of blood lipid spectrum (total CS, triglycerides, HDP CS) was not observed. Thus, elevated level of CS-IC and association with LDP CS may be involved in atherogenesis of SLE patients.