Anti-PLA2R (phospholipase A2 receptor) antibodies are detectable in the serum in what percentage of cases of primary membranous nephropathy and have diagnostic significance?
- A Approximately 20–30%
- B Approximately 70–80% ✓
- C Approximately 95–100%
- D Approximately 5–10%
Correct answer: B. Approximately 70–80%
Explanation
Anti-PLA2R antibodies are detected in approximately 70–80% of primary (idiopathic) membranous nephropathy cases. PLA2R is a podocyte antigen; IgG4 antibodies form in situ subepithelial immune complexes. Anti-PLA2R titers correlate with disease activity and can predict relapse or remission, making them a useful noninvasive biomarker. Their absence should prompt search for secondary causes (malignancy, hepatitis B, SLE).
Reference: Robbins & Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease, 10th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
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