Also known as: Pemphigus; Pemphigoid; Skin
Immunofluorescence testing plays an important role in the diagnosis of several autoimmune skin diseases. The blistering skin diseases where IIF is used are:
- Pemphigus Vulgaris (PV)
Serum antibodies directed against the cell surface of epidermal keratinocytes are found in 90% of patients with Pemphigus and correlate with disease activity. - Bullous Pemphigoid
Serum antibodies directed against the basement membrane are present in 70% of patients. Antibody levels do not reflect disease activity and antibody tends to persist even following successful therapy. Antibodies are uncommon in normal individuals or in other skin diseases.
Specimen requirements
Serum 1ml
Cost
Price on application
Laboratory turnaround time
14 days
Laboratory method
Immunofluorescence
Reference range/units
Reported as Positive or Negative, except Pemphigus antibody results also have an end-point titre
Associated tests
Not applicable
Shipping and storage
UK and Ireland
Ambient temperature and first class post. Hays DX users please enquire via email below.
International
Ambient temperature if courier will deliver within 72 hours otherwise consider refrigerated transport. Freezing is not a requirement.
Ensure delivery Monday to Friday 09:00 - 17:30.
Further information and contact details
For further information, email immunologylab.enquiries@ouh.nhs.uk
