Direct Immunofluorescence of Skin and Oral Mucosa: Guidelines for Selecting the Optimum Biopsy Site

Abstract

Direct immunofluorescence is a vital diagnostic test for assessing vesiculobullous disorders, vasculitides, and connective tissue diseases. It is a robust and valuable technique that offers essential diagnostic information for many critical dermatoses. Dermatopathologists depend heavily on the data obtained from direct immunofluorescence evaluation to confirm final diagnoses. Selecting the most appropriate biopsy site is necessary for maximizing diagnostic accuracy, and the best site may vary depending on the clinical differential diagnosis. Inaccurate biopsy site selection can significantly impact the accuracy of the results. To optimize the use of direct immunofluorescence studies, this review provides helpful guidelines and some practical tips for selecting the best biopsy site.

Keywords

• direct immunofluorescence
• biopsy site
• vesiculobullous disorder
• vasculitis
• connective tissue disease
• oral mucosa