Pathogenetic mechanisms underlying the diagnosis of pemphigus vulgaris

Laboratory methods used to diagnose pemphigus vulgaris are based on an understanding of the immunological mechanisms mediating disease development, with a key role of the production of autoantibodies targeting structural proteins of epithelial tissue. This review highlights the advantages and limitations of diagnostic methods used to verify autoimmune bullous dermatoses and presents data of the sensitivity and specificity of immunohistochemistry and its potential use as an alternative diagnostic method for verify pemphigus vulgaris.