[Collagen type IV of the basal membrane of the epithelium of the skin in certain forms of pathology].

Using immunofluorescence, attenuation or complete disappearance of type IV collagen antiserum reaction were shown in the epidermal basal membrane zone of SLE patients. Some positive material was revealed in the intercellular spaces of the epidermis. There is an inverse correlation between the amount of immune complexes in the dermo-epidermal region and the intensity of anticollagen serum reaction in the basal membrane zone. This can be explained by the toxic effect of immune complexes on collagen-synthesizing cells and the disturbance of this protein fixation in the basal membrane followed by its sequestration from the affected regions. Complex therapy including hemoperfusion restores normal collagen location in the epidermal basal membrane.