Basement Membrane Zone (Epithelial) Antibodies, IgA by IIF
Also known as: EBMZ IGA
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
Testing should be correlated with concurrent Direct Immunofluorescence, Tissue Biopsy (Cutaneous, Mucosal, Epithelial). For initial linear IgA disease diagnosis, the serum Basement Membrane Zone Antibody Panel (3001410) or Immunobullous Disease Antibody Panel (3001409) is preferred for a more comprehensive evaluation.
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.
New York Approved
Methodology
Immunoassay (Indirect Immunofluorescence)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 38440-4
Result Turnaround Time
4-9 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 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.
Causes for Rejection
Hemolyzed or lipemic specimens. Plasma.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 1 week |
| Refrigerated | 2 weeks |
| Frozen | Indefinitely |