title: Direct immunofluorescence testing of skin biopsies--an under-utilised diagnostic aid.
abstract: Direct immunofluorescence testing of skin biopsies is a simple inexpensive and relatively non-invasive diagnostic procedure currently widely used in dermatological practice for the investigation and diagnosis of dermatological and immunological disorders. This paper reviews the value and applicability of the procedure in a variety of disease states. The sensitivity and specificity of the test to a spectrum of clinical conditions should encourage its more widespread use in general medical and rheumatology practice.
authors.forename: J
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Jackson
authors.forename: A
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Murray
authors.forename: L
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Barnes
authors.forename: M
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Young
authors.forename: E
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Sweeney
authors.forename: C
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Feighery
mesh_terms: D001706:Biopsy; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D005455:Fluorescent Antibody Technique; D006801:Humans; D012871:Skin Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000473:pathology