The objective of this review is to summarize the most recent developments related to this miscellaneous group of diseases. Emphasis has been placed on information that will help the practicing physician, such as clinical observations, improved diagnostic techniques, particularly ones that are noninvasive or minor, and new therapeutic approaches. An interesting animal study that helps in the understanding of the increased frequency of coronary artery disease in patients with long-standing systemic lupus erythematosus is described.