Epidermolysis bullosa acquisita--mapping of antigenic determinants by an immunofluorescent technique.

In a 32-year-old patient suffering from a mild form of epidermolysis bullosa acquisita, the level of the dermolytic cleavage was determined by immunofluorescent mapping of the antigenic determinants (type IV-collagen and laminin), which were found on the roof of the blister. This labeling pattern was compared with the in vivo deposit of IgG by a double immunofluorescent technique. With regard to electron microscopy, this method represents an easier and more rapid diagnostic procedure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]