We assessed the quality of life and health status of 50 women with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and compared them with 50 age matched women with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) using open ended questions, the Quality of Life Scale (QOLS-S), Arthritis Impact Measurement Scales (AIMS), Rheumatology Attitudes Index, and 2 measures of disease activity. The patients with SLE expressed more concerns about their disease and potential for managing it than the patients with RA. However, there were no differences between the groups on the QOLS-S. Both were highly satisfied with many aspects of their lives. The best predictor of life quality in both groups was psychological distress followed by social and physical functioning in the group with RA and perception of global impact of the disease in the group with SLE.