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Dermatology · Vesiculobullous disorders: monitoring pemphigus by ELISA
Sample itemA man with pemphigus vulgaris in remission is followed in clinic. Which laboratory test best tracks disease activity and may predict relapse?
Original practice item, not a recalled exam question. Nothing here is recorded.
The answer and the reasoning
A. ELISA for anti-desmoglein antibody titres
Serum anti-desmoglein 1 and 3 titres by ELISA correlate with disease activity in pemphigus and are used to follow response and anticipate relapse. They are an adjunct and do not replace clinical assessment.
Option by option
A. ELISA for anti-desmoglein antibody titres (correct)
Correct. Anti-Dsg1 and Dsg3 ELISA titres follow disease activity.
B. Serum IgE level
IgE is raised in atopy and bullous pemphigoid, not a measure of pemphigus activity.
C. Antinuclear antibody titre
ANA is used in connective tissue disease and does not track pemphigus.
D. Anti-streptolysin O titre
ASO titre reflects recent streptococcal infection.
Source note: Original NextPrep sample item — pending expert review. This item is original practice material awaiting independent expert review, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.
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