Punctate pemphigus: an underreported direct immunofluorescence pattern

J Cutan Pathol. 2014 Mar;41(3):293-6. doi: 10.1111/cup.12272. Epub 2013 Dec 24.

Abstract

Intercellular epidermal deposition of immunoglobulin G (IgG) in a continuous net-like or 'chicken wire' pattern is a well-described and diagnostic finding in direct immunofluorescence (DIF) studies of pemphigus. In our experience, punctate or dot-like intercellular deposition of IgG can also be seen in cases of pemphigus but has received little attention in the literature. We describe a series of DIF specimens showing intercellular deposition of IgG in continuous and/or punctate patterns, which occurred with equal frequency in pemphigus vulgaris and pemphigus foliaceus. This series highlights the punctate or dot-like pattern of intercellular IgG deposition in DIF studies of pemphigus, reviews potential mechanisms and calls attention to this potentially under-recognized phenomenon.

Keywords: desmosome; dot-like; immunofluorescence; pemphigus; punctate.

MeSH terms

  • Female
  • Humans
  • Immunoglobulin G / metabolism*
  • Immunohistochemistry / methods
  • Male
  • Pemphigus / metabolism*
  • Pemphigus / pathology*
  • Retrospective Studies

Substances

  • Immunoglobulin G