[Immunopathologic studies in herpes gestationis].

In a 19-year-old Turkish primigravida with clinically and histologically confirmed herpes gestationis, immunohistological investigations revealed deposits of C3, C4, IgG, and IgM in the dermoepidermal junction. Furthermore, C3 and IgM were found in the upper dermal vessels, suggesting a concomitant vasculitis, which was also observed by capillary microscopy. ANA were present in the serum of the patient, a circulating factor capable of fixing complement to the basement-membrane (HG-factor) was demonstrable as well. Lymphocytotoxic antibodies, however, could not be detected. HLA-typing disclosed HLA-B8 haplotype.