Direct immunofluorescence of detached gingival epithelium for diagnosis of cicatricial pemphigoid. Report of five cases

The diagnosis of mucosal cicatricial pemphigoid is often problematic because of frequent false negative or equivocal biopsy results. We describe an immunofluorescent technique that uses detached gingival epithelium for diagnostic purposes when oral manifestations of cicatricial pemphigoid are suspected. Erythematous mucosa that is gently rubbed produces detached epithelium that is then submitted for direct immunofluorescence studies along with tissue acquired via conventional techniques. In the five cases reported, the detached gingival epithelium stained intensely for immunoglobulins and complement on the basilar pole of the basal epithelial cells. The donor sites healed without a resultant periodontal defect. This adjunctive biopsy technique offers the advantage of easily procuring gingival tissue with deposition of immunoreactants that are quite specific for the diagnosis of cicatricial pemphigoid.