Basement Membrane Zone and Cell Surface (Epithelial) Antibodies, IgG and IgA by IIF
Also known as: EPITHELIAL
Use
The Basement Membrane Zone and Cell Surface (Epithelial) Antibodies, IgG and IgA by IIF test is used for indirect immunofluorescence monitoring of linear IgG and IgA basement membrane zone antibody-associated diseases or IgG and IgA cell surface/intracellular substance antibody-associated diseases. It is particularly useful in cases where ELISAs may not show increased antibody levels. This test assesses changing patterns of epithelial antibody expression and is not the preferred initial test for immunobullous diseases but can provide a broad epithelial antibody assessment when used in conjunction with other specific ELISA tests.
Special Instructions
This test involves indirect immunofluorescence of serum with three substrates: human basement membrane zone split skin, intact human skin, and monkey esophagus. It is recommended to consider ELISAs such as the Bullous Pemphigoid (BP180 and BP230) Antibodies, IgG by ELISA for suspected pemphigoid, EBA, or similar conditions, for a more sensitive diagnostic approach.
Limitations
The test is not as sensitive as ELISAs for certain antibody detections and monitoring, as ELISAs are restricted to antibodies with specificity to the epitopes included in the test. Negative results in this assay do not exclude the presence of antibodies associated with basement membrane zone or cell surface protein conditions. Additionally, the test results may not rule out pemphigus, pemphigoid, or epidermolysis bullosa acquisita, and clinical correlation is necessary.
Methodology
Immunoassay (Indirect Imunofluorescence)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 66877-2
Result Turnaround Time
3-9 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
2 mL
Minimum Volume
0.5 mL
Container
ARUP standard transport tube
Collection Instructions
Collect in plain red or serum separator tube (SST).
Storage Instructions
Store refrigerated unless shipping within 2 hours. Transport at ambient temperature to arrive within 7 days. If 7-14 days until received, store and ship refrigerated. If greater than 14 days, store and ship frozen.
Causes for Rejection
Hemolyzed or lipemic specimens. Plasma.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 1 week |
| Refrigerated | 2 weeks |
| Frozen | Indefinitely |
