Detection of Enhanced Leukocyte Functions on Tissue Specimens; A Simple Method Using the Leukocyte Attachment and NBT Test

Enhanced leukocyte functions mediated by complement components were detectable on tissue specimens, using the leukocyte attachment and NBT reduction test. Pemphigoid antibodies mediated the attachment of leukocytes at the dermoepidermal junction in the presence of complement, with subsequent activation of their metabolic pathway. Pemphigus antibodies also induced the attachment of leukocytes at the epidermis. The resultant histologic feature was similar to that of eosinophilic spongiosis in pemphigus. In psoriatic lesions, leukocytes adhered to the stratum corneum, especially to the Munro's microabscess and thick parakeratotic lesion, where deposits of C3 were constantly demonstrable. Those leukocytes binding specifically to the stratum corneum showed vigorous incorporation of NBT dyes and respiratory burst. This simple technique is available for various types of skin disorders to detect interaction between leukocytes and complement components bound to the tissue specimens.