Basement Membrane Zone (Epithelial) Antibodies, IgA by IIF

Also known as: EBMZ IGA

Clinical Use

Use

This test is used to assess and monitor IgA basement membrane zone antibodies in patients with linear IgA disease, such as linear IgA bullous dermatosis and chronic bullous disease of childhood, and IgA variant epidermolysis bullosa acquisita (EBA). Positive serum IgA antibodies are highly specific markers for linear IgA disease and are present in up to 80 percent of affected patients. The presence of these antibodies may aid in diagnosing various autoimmune skin disorders.

Special Instructions

Not provided.

Limitations

A negative finding for IgA basement membrane zone antibodies does not rule out the diagnosis of linear IgA disease. Detection, levels, and patterns of diagnostic antibodies may fluctuate with disease expression. Clinical correlation, including direct immunofluorescence findings on a biopsy specimen and treatment status, is required. Other immunobullous diseases may also be present with varying antibody reactions.

Test Details

New York Approved

Methodology

Immunoassay (Indirect Immunofluorescence)

Biomarkers

IgA

Antibody

Indirect Immunofluorescence

Other • Categorical (e.g., Positive / Negative / Indeterminate)

LOINC Codes

Result Codes

38440-4 - BMZ Ab Ser Ql

Result Turnaround Time

4-9 days

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 promptly (within 2 hours). Transport at ambient temperature to arrive within 7 days. If 7-14 days until received in laboratory, store and ship refrigerated. If greater than 14 days, serum specimens must be stored and shipped frozen.