Basement Membrane Zone (Epithelial) Antibodies, IgG by IIF
Also known as: EBMZ IGG
Use
This test is used to assess and monitor IgG basement membrane zone antibodies in patients exhibiting symptoms of pemphigoid, pemphigoid variants, and epidermolysis bullosa acquisita (EBA). It is particularly useful for patients who have normal IgG BP180, IgG BP230, and IgG type VII collagen antibody levels when evaluated by ELISA methods. Indirect immunofluorescence, performed on serum samples, detects the IgG antibodies that target the basement membrane zone, providing valuable information to aid in the diagnosis and management of these conditions.
Special Instructions
Testing is most informative when correlated with concurrent Direct Immunofluorescence and Tissue Biopsy studies, particularly from cutaneous, mucosal, or epithelial sources. The test is part of a broader immunodermatology panel used alongside pemphigoid and basement membrane zone antibody panels, which offer increased diagnostic sensitivity.
Limitations
While semi-quantitative indirect immunofluorescence is a sensitive method, ELISA for specific IgG subtypes (e.g., IgG BP180 and IgG BP230) may provide superior sensitivity in some patients. Negative results do not rule out all forms of immunobullous diseases, as IgA or alternative antibody profiles might be responsible. Further, the reagents are reactive to basement membrane zone antibodies, and other concurrent disease states or drug treatments might impact results.
New York Approved
Methodology
Immunoassay (IIF)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 45178-1
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
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 |