Immunofluorescence profile of discoid lupus erythematosus.

The direct immunofluorescence (DIF) of skin in conjunction with histopathology gives the best diagnostic yield. It is invaluable in confirming the diagnosis of small vessel vasculitides and bullous lesions of the skin and can be used as an additional tool to pinpoint the diagnosis of systemic and localized autoimmune diseases involving the skin. This study was undertaken to analyze the strength of DIF vis-à -vis histopathology in the diagnosis of discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE) and at the same time to elaborate the specific immunofluorescence findings in the lesions of DLE.

Rapidly progressive renal failure in type 2 diabetes in the tropical environment: a clinico-pathological study.

Background: Rapid decline of renal function in a diabetic suggests the presence of a nondiabetic kidney disease (NDKD). We designed a prospective study to evaluate the factors associated with a rapid decline in renal function in patients with type 2 diabetes.

Methods: Over a 2 and a half year period, all patients with type 2 diabetes who presented with documented doubling of serum creatinine in less than 4 weeks or recently diagnosed advanced renal failure were identified.