Intraepidermal intercellular IgG deposition is seen in –
**Core Concept**
Intraepidermal intercellular IgG deposition is a pathognomonic feature of autoimmune bullous diseases, specifically pemphigus vulgaris. This condition is characterized by the formation of autoantibodies against desmoglein 3 proteins, which are crucial for cell-to-cell adhesion in the epidermis.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
In pemphigus vulgaris, the autoantibodies (IgG) bind to the desmoglein 3 proteins on the surface of keratinocytes, leading to the disruption of cell-to-cell adhesion. This results in the formation of intraepidermal blisters, which are characteristic of the disease. The deposition of IgG along the intercellular spaces of the epidermis is a hallmark of this condition and is seen in skin biopsies.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is incorrect because intraepidermal intercellular IgG deposition is not typically seen in dermatitis herpetiformis, which is characterized by subepidermal blistering and IgA deposition.
**Option B:** This option is incorrect because lupus erythematosus is characterized by a wide range of autoantibodies, but intraepidermal intercellular IgG deposition is not a specific feature of this condition.
**Option C:** This option is incorrect because bullous pemphigoid is characterized by subepidermal blistering and IgG deposition, but not intraepidermal intercellular IgG deposition.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Pemphigus vulgaris is a classic example of an autoimmune bullous disease that can mimic other dermatological conditions. Remember that intraepidermal intercellular IgG deposition is a specific and sensitive marker for pemphigus vulgaris.
**Correct Answer: D. Pemphigus vulgaris**