In pemphigus vulgaris, the severity of disease can be monitored using anti-desmoglein antibody titers measured by ELISA. Which desmoglein antibody profile best correlates with mucosal-dominant disease activity?

• A Anti-desmoglein 1 IgG only
• B Anti-desmoglein 3 IgG only ✓
• C Anti-desmocollin 3 IgA only
• D Anti-BP180 IgG only

Explanation

Anti-desmoglein 3 IgG levels correlate with mucosal-dominant disease activity in pemphigus vulgaris. When skin involvement develops, anti-desmoglein 1 antibodies appear as well, reflecting epitope spreading. Anti-desmoglein 1 alone suggests pemphigus foliaceus. Anti-desmocollin antibodies are seen in IgA pemphigus subtypes. Anti-BP180 is seen in bullous pemphigoid and some mucous membrane pemphigoid.

Reference: Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine, 21st ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

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