Immunofluorescence Aids Diagnosis for Threatening Mucous Membrane Pemphigoid Variant

Sophisticated laboratory diagnostics are necessary for definite identification, but this simple technique assists the differential diagnosis.

Mucous membrane pemphigoid (MMP) includes a set of autoimmune, subepidermal, bullous diseases affecting mostly mucous membranes, such as the mouth, eyes, pharynx, larynx, and anus. Only one subtype, anti-laminin-332 MMP (anti-LN-332 MMP), is associated with malignant neoplasms elsewhere. Therefore, correct diagnosis is important, but anti-LN-332 MMP is clinically indistinguishable from other MMPs. To identify accessible laboratory tests, these investigators studied 10 patients with MMP and antibodies to LN-332. Two had lung adenocarcinomas; all had mucosal erosions, most in the eyes and mouth. Nasal crusts, genital erosions, and shortness of breath were other presenting signs. Skin lesions were present in 8 patients, either as generalized b…

Reviewing Author

Mark V. Dahl, MD

Disclosures

Consultant / Advisory board Ulthera, Inc.; AuBio LifeSciences, LLC; Paris Therapeutics

Equity Elorac, Inc.; Makucell, Inc.; Paris Therapeutics

Editorial boards UpToDate

Leadership positions in professional societiesNational Rosacea Society (Chairman, Medical Board)

Mark V. Dahl, MD

Disclosures

Consultant / Advisory board Ulthera, Inc.; AuBio LifeSciences, LLC; Paris Therapeutics

Equity Elorac, Inc.; Makucell, Inc.; Paris Therapeutics

Editorial boards UpToDate

Leadership positions in professional societiesNational Rosacea Society (Chairman, Medical Board)