Possibilities and value of immunofluorescence in the diagnosis of liver diseases
Storch, W.
Zeitschrift für die Gesamte Innere Medizin und ihre Grenzgebiete 38(4): 121-124
1983
ISSN/ISBN: 0044-2542 PMID: 6344466 Document Number: 211643
The immunohistological investigation of liver tissue is at present regarded as method of choice for the differential diagnosis of the virus hepatitis. The quantity and distribution of various viral antigens of the hepatitis A, B and non-A/non-B furthermore allow statements concerning the prognosis. Moreover, they authoritatively influence etiopathogenetical and therapeutical concepts, also on account of the probably simultaneous proof of immunoglobulins and complement components. With the help of immunohistological methods also metabolic diseases (e.g. an alpha 1-antitrypsin deficiency) may clearly be diagnosed, when a diagnosis from the serum is not possible (among other post mortem). As an instance for scientific investigations the proof of complement in inclusion bodies of the liver cell and in so-called biliary thrombi are mentioned. Possibly in future the immunohistology is also mentioned for the early diagnosis of liver tumours.