Basement Membrane Zone (Epithelial) Antibodies, IgG by IIF

Also known as: EBMZ IGG

Clinical Use

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

Not provided.

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.

Test Details

New York Approved

Methodology

Immunoassay (IIF)

Biomarkers

IgG Basement Membrane Zone

Antibody

Other

Other • Binary (Detected / Not Detected)

LOINC Codes

Result Codes

45178-1 - BMZ IgG Ser Ql IF

Result Turnaround Time

3-9 days

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.