Glomerular Basement Membrane (GBM) Antibodies, Serum

Glomerular basement membrane (GBM) antibodies are autoantibodies directed against the non-collagenous domain of the α-3(IV) collagen chain (Goodpasture antigen). Most patients with GBM antibodies present with a rapidly progressive form of glomerulonephritis. Because Goodpasture antigen is present in the alveolar basement membrane, pulmonary haemorrhage may occur in some patients. It has been reported that between 15 – 35% of anti-GMB positive individuals have normal renal function (normal serum creatinine and creatinine clearance). However, haematuria and proteinuria are frequently present. In these individuals, pulmonary involvement (haemoptysis (coughing up blood) or pulmonary haemosiderosis) is the most serious manifestation of the disease.

The test is useful in the diagnosis of Goodpasture disease and in the differential diagnosis of glomerulonephritis.

1 ml Serum Stability: 14 Days at 2-8 °C

Negative