Two Different Isoforms of Desmocollin Are Recognized by Autoantibodies in Various Types of Pemphigus

Abstract

We have previously reported that, in addition to well-known pemphigus antigens (desmoglein and pemphigus vulgaris antigen), desmocollin (Dsc), another desmosomal cadherin, is recognized by certain pemphigus sera. Furthermore, we noticed that two Dsc species with a slightly different relative molecular weight were recognized by various pemphigus sera. This difference may contribute to the different clinicopathological features between the subcorneal pustular dermatosis type and the intraepidermal neutrophilic IgA dermatosis type of intercellular IgA vesiculopustular dermatosis.

Subcorneal Pustular Dermatosis–Type IgA Pemphigus With Autoantibodies to Desmocollins 1, 2, and 3

“…10 In the SPD type, des-mocollin 1, one of the desmosomal cadherins, has been identified as a target autoantigen. 7,11,12 In most cases of the IEN type, the autoantigen remains to be fully characterized, 13 whereas, in single cases, desmoglein 1 and desmoglein 3 have been demonstrated to be targets of the autoantibodies in this variant. 6,14 Clinically, patients commonly present with flat pustules, often on a slightly erythematous base, which tend to coalesce to form annular patterns.…”