Epidermal Antibodies

Also known as: Pemphigus; Pemphigoid; Skin

Immunofluorescence testing plays an important role in the diagnosis of several autoimmune skin diseases. The blistering skin diseases where IIF is used are:

• Pemphigus Vulgaris (PV)
  Serum antibodies directed against the cell surface of epidermal keratinocytes are found in 90% of patients with Pemphigus and correlate with disease activity.
• Bullous Pemphigoid
  Serum antibodies directed against the basement membrane are present in 70% of patients. Antibody levels do not reflect disease activity and antibody tends to persist even following successful therapy. Antibodies are uncommon in normal individuals or in other skin diseases.

Specimen requirements

Serum 1ml

Cost

Price on application

Laboratory turnaround time

14 days

Laboratory method

Immunofluorescence

Reference range/units

Reported as Positive or Negative, except Pemphigus antibody results also have an end-point titre

Associated tests

Not applicable

Shipping and storage

UK and Ireland

Ambient temperature and first class post. Hays DX users please enquire via email below.

International

Ambient temperature if courier will deliver within 72 hours otherwise consider refrigerated transport. Freezing is not a requirement.

Ensure delivery Monday to Friday 09:00 - 17:30.

Further information and contact details

For further information, email immunology.office@nhs.net