[Linear IgA bullous dermatosis (LABD): a recently recognized entity]

In previous years linear IgA bullous dermatosis (LABD) of the adults has caused considerable discussion as to its classification. Some investigators considered LABD to be a subgroup of pemphigoid and others regarded it as being more closely related to dermatitis herpetiformis. However a growing body of evidence points to LABD as a distinct disease entity which is characterized by IgA staining along the basement membrane zone in a linear pattern (Chorzelski et al 1979). In this paper a review of this newly recognized entity is attempted, based on the reports from the literature. The clinico-pathologic and immunologic features of LABD are analyzed and discussed and emphasis is given to the problem of differential diagnosis with other bullous dermatoses.