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Pathology · single question

Pemphigus vulgaris involves autoantibodies directed against which structure?

  1. Hemidesmosomes
  2. The lamina densa
  3. Desmosomes
  4. Type VII collagen anchoring fibrils
Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: C. Desmosomes

  • A. Incorrect. Hemidesmosomes (BP180, BP230) are the target in mucous membrane and bullous pemphigoid, producing a SUB-epithelial split.
  • B. Incorrect. The lamina densa is a basement membrane zone component, not the pemphigus target.
  • C. Correct. IgG autoantibodies target desmoglein 1 and 3 within desmosomes, which join adjacent keratinocytes. Loss of adhesion (acantholysis) creates an INTRA-epithelial suprabasilar split with a 'row of tombstones' basal layer.
  • D. Incorrect. Type VII collagen is the target in epidermolysis bullosa acquisita.

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