ADVANCED TESTING
Immunofluorescent Laboratory
The Immunofluorescent Laboratory is the largest diagnostic laboratory in the Rocky
Mountain region, dedicated to the diagnosis of bullous and autoimmune diseases.
Services that are routinely offered include direct immunofluorescence, indirect
immunofluorescence, saline-split skin direct and indirect immunofluorescence and
immunomapping of genetic bullous diseases (epidermolysis bullosa). The antibodies
that are most commonly used include IgG, IgA, IgM, C3, fibrin, Clq (connective tissue
disorders) and IgE (select cases).
Transport media for immunofluorescent studies can be ordered from the Client Services
tab. Submission forms for immunofluorescent studies can also be downloaded from
this tab.
Electron Microscopy
Electron microscopy is offered on a routine basis for skin diseases. The most common
use of this technique is for the diagnosis of the level of split in epidermolysis
bullosa.
Transport media for electron microscopy studies can be ordered from the Client Services
tab. Submission forms for electron microscopy studies can also be downloaded from
this tab. The turn around for electron microscopy is typically 10-14 days.
ELISA Testing
ELISA testing of serum for both pemphigus and bullous pemphigoid is available. Serological
tests for pemphigus that are currently available include desmoglein-1 (DSG-1) and
desmoglein-3 (DSG-3). Serological tests for bullous pemphigoid that are available
include BP-180 and BP-230. Both tests are more sensitive than indirect immunofluorescent
antibodies and are FDA-approved for this use.
Advanced Materials Analysis
We have the technology and expertise to analyze tissue for a variety of metals and
biological compounds using advanced bioanalytical techniques, such as: SEM-EDS,
high-performance liquid chromatography, inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry,
inductively coupled plasma optical emissions spectrometry, Raman spectroscopy and
nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Because of the time and expense of such
testing, this interest is limited to research collaborations or prior arrangement.
When interest exists for such services or collaborations, please contact Dr. Whitney
A. High before sending any specimens. Turn around time on such specimens is usually
around 6-8 weeks, but it varies based upon batching of specimens destined for similar
testing.