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Desmoglein (DSG) 1 and 3 Antibody in Dilution/End Point Titre Test

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Desmoglein (DSG) 1 and 3 Antibody in Dilution/End Point Titre Test

Short Name: DSG 1 & 3 Antibody Titre

Also known as: Desmoglein 1 Antibody Test, Desmoglein 3 Antibody Test, DSG Antibody Titre Test, Pemphigus Antibody Test, Anti-Desmoglein Antibody Test

Desmoglein (DSG) 1 and 3 Antibody in Dilution/End Point Titre Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹13,000. Uses Immunofluorescence Assay (IFA) on Serum samples. Results in Sample acceptance days: Tuesday and Friday (sample must arrive by 9:00 AM). Reports are available within 3 days of sample processing. Results can be accessed via the online portal, email, or WhatsApp.. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.

ImmunologyAll Age Groups🏠 Home Collection

✍️ Written By

🩺 Medically Reviewed By

Dr Pasupathy Arumugam

Dr Pasupathy Arumugam

Consultant Pathologist · Reg: 21521

Last reviewed: September 7, 2026

Overview

The purpose of the Desmoglein (DSG) 1 and 3 Antibody test is to detect and measure autoantibodies against desmoglein 1 and desmoglein 3 proteins in the blood. This test aids in diagnosing Pemphigus Vulgaris and Pemphigus Foliaceus, differentiating between the two conditions based on the antibody profile, monitoring disease activity and treatment response, and detecting early relapses. The end point titre method provides quantitative data through serial dilutions, enabling clinicians to track changes in antibody levels over the course of treatment.

Test Code
491
Price
₹13,000
Sample Type
Serum
Result Time
Sample acceptance days: Tuesday and Friday (sample must arrive by 9:00 AM). Reports are available within 3 days of sample processing. Results can be accessed via the online portal, email, or WhatsApp.
Fasting Required
Yes (8 hours)
Method
Immunofluorescence Assay (IFA)
Step 1

Sample Collection

Overnight fasting of 8–12 hours is preferred. Inform your physician about all medications, supplements, or immunosuppressive treatments you are currently taking. No special dietary restrictions other than fasting are required. Ensure adequate hydration.

Method: Venipuncture

Step 2

Laboratory Analysis

A healthcare professional will draw a blood sample from a vein in your arm using standard venipuncture technique. The procedure typically takes 5–10 minutes. You may feel a brief sting when the needle is inserted.

Step 3

Report Delivery

Apply gentle pressure to the puncture site with a sterile cotton ball for 3–5 minutes. A small bruise at the site is normal and resolves within a few days. You may resume normal activities and diet immediately. Keep the puncture site clean and dry.

Timeline: Sample acceptance days: Tuesday and Friday (sample must arrive by 9:00 AM). Reports are available within 3 days of sample processing. Results can be accessed via the online portal, email, or WhatsApp.

Patient Instructions

1
Before the Test:Overnight fasting of 8–12 hours is preferred before sample collection. Inform your physician about all current medications, especially immunosuppressive drugs, corticosteroids, or biologic agents, as these may affect antibody levels. No other special preparation is required.
2
During the Test:A qualified phlebotomist will collect a blood sample from a vein in your arm using standard venipuncture. Approximately 2 mL of blood is drawn into an SST tube. The procedure takes 5–10 minutes and involves minimal discomfort.
3
After the Test:After blood collection, apply gentle pressure to the puncture site for 3–5 minutes. Mild bruising is common and resolves within a few days. You may resume normal activities and diet immediately. The serum sample is separated, processed, and tested via immunofluorescence assay. Reports are typically available within 3 days.

About This Test

Who Should Get This Test

The purpose of the Desmoglein (DSG) 1 and 3 Antibody test is to detect and measure autoantibodies against desmoglein 1 and desmoglein 3 proteins in the blood. This test aids in diagnosing Pemphigus Vulgaris and Pemphigus Foliaceus, differentiating between the two conditions based on the antibody profile, monitoring disease activity and treatment response, and detecting early relapses. The end point titre method provides quantitative data through serial dilutions, enabling clinicians to track changes in antibody levels over the course of treatment.

How to Prepare

  • Overnight fasting of 8–12 hours is preferred but not mandatory
  • Collect 2 mL (minimum 1 mL) serum from 1 SST (Serum Separator Tube)
  • Ship the sample refrigerated (2–8°C) or frozen (−20°C)
  • Avoid hemolyzed or lipemic samples
  • Label the sample correctly with patient name, date, and time of collection
  • Transport the sample to the laboratory as soon as possible

Doctor's Notes

Reviewed by — MBBS, MD (Pathology) · Reg. No. 21521

"As a clinical immunologist, I consider the DSG antibody end point titre test essential for both diagnosis and disease monitoring in pemphigus. Anti-DSG3 antibodies are closely associated with mucosal-dominant Pemphigus Vulgaris, while anti-DSG1 antibodies predominate in Pemphigus Foliaceus with primarily cutaneous involvement. In many Pemphigus Vulgaris patients, both antibodies may be elevated, correlating with widespread disease. Serial monitoring of titres is valuable for assessing treatment response — a declining titre typically indicates improvement, while rising titres may signal a relapse before clinical symptoms appear. Early intervention based on titre changes can help prevent disease flares and improve patient outcomes."

Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026

Test Parameters & Specifications

Sample TypeSerum
Sample Volume2 mL (1 mL min.)
ContainerSST (Serum Separator Tube)
Collection MethodVenipuncture

Sample Stability

Room Temperature (15–25°C): Up to 6 hours
Refrigerated (2–8°C): Up to 1 week
Frozen (−20°C): Up to 2 weeks
Sample Rejection Criteria:
  • Hemolyzed or grossly lipemic sample
  • Insufficient sample volume (less than 1 mL serum)
  • Improperly labeled or unlabeled sample
  • Sample stored at room temperature beyond 6 hours
  • Clotted or contaminated sample
  • Sample collected in incorrect tube type

Understanding Your Results

Results of the Desmoglein (DSG) 1 and 3 Antibody test are reported as end point titres, which represent the highest dilution of the patient's serum at which antibodies are still detectable. Higher titres generally indicate greater antibody concentrations and may correlate with disease activity. Results must always be interpreted in conjunction with clinical findings and other diagnostic investigations such as skin biopsy and direct immunofluorescence.
📊

Negative (< 1:10)

No detectable anti-DSG1 or anti-DSG3 antibodies. Does not completely rule out pemphigus in early-stage or localized disease. Clinical correlation and repeat testing may be considered if symptoms persist.

📊

Low Positive (1:10 – 1:40)

Low levels of desmoglein antibodies detected. May indicate early or mild pemphigus, or a patient responding well to treatment. Clinical correlation with symptoms and biopsy findings is recommended.

📊

Moderate Positive (1:80 – 1:160)

Moderate antibody titres suggestive of active pemphigus disease. Anti-DSG3 positivity at this level may indicate mucosal involvement (Pemphigus Vulgaris), while anti-DSG1 may suggest cutaneous involvement (Pemphigus Foliaceus). Continued monitoring and dermatological evaluation recommended.

📊

High Positive (≥ 1:320)

High antibody titres strongly indicative of active and potentially extensive pemphigus. Immediate dermatological and immunological evaluation is recommended. Titres at this level may correlate with widespread blistering and may require aggressive immunosuppressive therapy.

⚠️ When to Consult a Doctor:

Consult a dermatologist or clinical immunologist immediately if your test results are positive, if you develop new or worsening blisters or erosions, if oral or mucosal sores persist, or if symptoms recur after treatment. Early intervention can prevent disease progression and complications.

Limitations

  • ⚠A negative result does not completely exclude pemphigus, especially in early or localized disease
  • ⚠Antibody titres may not always correlate directly with clinical disease severity
  • ⚠Cross-reactivity with other desmosomal proteins is possible but uncommon
  • ⚠Serial testing is recommended for monitoring, as a single result may be insufficient to guide treatment
  • ⚠This test detects circulating antibodies and does not replace direct immunofluorescence on skin biopsy for definitive diagnosis

Risks & Considerations

  • ●Minor bruising or swelling at the blood draw site
  • ●Brief pain or stinging sensation during needle insertion
  • ●Rare risk of infection at the puncture site
  • ●Very rare: fainting or dizziness during blood collection

Interfering Factors

  • ●Hemolyzed or lipemic samples may interfere with test accuracy
  • ●Recent blood transfusions may affect antibody levels
  • ●Immunosuppressive medications may lower antibody titres
  • ●Corticosteroid therapy may suppress antibody production
  • ●Sample degradation due to improper storage or delayed transport

Compare With Similar Tests

TestDesmoglein (DSG) 1 and 3 Antibody in Dilution/End Point Titre TestELISA-based Desmoglein Antibody TestDirect Immunofluorescence (DIF) on Skin BiopsyIndirect Immunofluorescence (IIF) on Monkey Esophagus
ComparisonDesmoglein (DSG) 1 and 3 Antibody in Dilution/End Point Titre Test

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Desmoglein (DSG) 1 and 3 Antibody Test?
The Desmoglein (DSG) 1 and 3 Antibody Test is a blood test that detects autoantibodies against desmoglein 1 and desmoglein 3 proteins. These proteins are found in the skin and mucous membranes and are essential for cell-to-cell adhesion. When antibodies attack these proteins, it leads to autoimmune blistering diseases such as Pemphigus Vulgaris and Pemphigus Foliaceus.
Why is this test performed?
This test is performed to diagnose Pemphigus Vulgaris and Pemphigus Foliaceus, differentiate between the two conditions based on antibody type, monitor treatment response, assess disease severity, and detect early relapses in patients with known pemphigus.
What sample is required for this test?
The test requires a 2 mL blood sample (minimum 1 mL) collected in an SST (Serum Separator Tube) via standard venipuncture. The sample is then shipped refrigerated or frozen to the laboratory.
Is fasting required before the test?
Overnight fasting of 8–12 hours is preferred but not mandatory. Fasting helps ensure optimal sample quality. Inform your physician about any medications you are currently taking before the test.
What does a positive DSG antibody result mean?
A positive result indicates the presence of autoantibodies against desmoglein 1 or desmoglein 3 proteins, which is consistent with Pemphigus Vulgaris or Pemphigus Foliaceus. The end point titre helps indicate the level of antibodies. Higher titres may suggest more active disease. Results must be interpreted alongside clinical findings and additional tests.
What is the cost of the Desmoglein antibody test at DNA Labs India?
The cost of the Desmoglein (DSG) 1 and 3 Antibody in Dilution/End Point Titre Test at DNA Labs India is Rs 13,000. This price includes free home sample collection services available across India.
How long does it take to get the test results?
Results are typically available within 3 days of sample processing. Samples are accepted on Tuesday and Friday (by 9:00 AM). Reports can be accessed through the online portal, email, or WhatsApp.
What is the difference between Pemphigus Vulgaris and Pemphigus Foliaceus?
Pemphigus Vulgaris is primarily associated with anti-DSG3 antibodies and causes painful blisters and erosions in the mouth, throat, and skin. Pemphigus Foliaceus is mainly associated with anti-DSG1 antibodies and causes superficial blistering and crusting on the skin without significant mucosal involvement. This antibody test helps differentiate between the two conditions.
Can this test be used to monitor treatment response?
Yes. The end point titre method allows clinicians to track changes in antibody levels over time. Declining titres generally indicate a positive response to immunosuppressive therapy, while rising titres may signal an impending relapse. Serial testing is recommended for effective disease monitoring.
Is home sample collection available for this test?
Yes, DNA Labs India offers free home sample collection for this test across India. You can book the collection online or by calling our helpline. Home collection is available in all major cities including Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Chennai, Kolkata, Pune, and many more.
What does 'end point titre' mean in this test?
End point titre refers to the highest dilution of the patient's blood serum at which the antibody can still be detected. For example, a titre of 1:160 means the antibody is detectable even when the serum is diluted 160 times. Higher titres indicate higher concentrations of antibodies in the blood.
Who should get this test done?
This test is recommended for individuals presenting with unexplained skin blisters, persistent oral or mucosal erosions, suspected autoimmune blistering diseases, or a clinical suspicion of Pemphigus Vulgaris or Foliaceus. It is also recommended for patients with a known pemphigus diagnosis who require treatment monitoring or relapse surveillance.
Worried about the process? Our certified phlebotomists collect thousands of samples every month across India. The process takes under 5 minutes and is virtually painless. Questions? Message us on WhatsApp — we're here 7 days a week.

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