[Deposits with anti-globulin activity in dermatitis herpetiformis].

Skin biopsy specimens from 2 patients with dermatitis herpetiformis were examined by means of direct immunofluorescence with fluoresceinated aggregated human IgG (FAIgG) for the presence of tissue antiglobulin activity. Positive FAIgG staining was seen in both skin biopsy specimens yielding a fluorescence pattern similar to that of immunoglobulin and complement deposits. Tissue antiglobulin activity was no more detectable in a second skin biopsy obtained from one patient whose rash was controlled by Dapsone. These findings suggest an involvement of tissue antiglobulin activity in the pathogenesis of dermatitis herpetiformis. In fact, tissue antiglobulin activity is capable of acting as an immunoabsorbent and binding immunocomplexes from the circulation.