Lab Code : GBM
Test Background Glomerular basement membrane (anti-GBM) antibody disease is a rare autoimmune disorder in which circulating antibodies are directed against an antigen normally present in the GBM and alveolar basement membrane. The target antigen is the alpha-3 chain of type IV collagen. The clinical syndrome encompasses a spectrum from mild or no renal involvement to a rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis. Significant proportions of patients develop pulmonary haemorrhage, and most individuals have signs of a generalised systemic illness. The combination of glomerulonephritis and pulmonary haemorrhage has been commonly referred to as Goodpasture’s syndrome. These antibodies are found in patients with Goodpasture’s syndrome (>90 % sensitivity).
Clinical Indications Acute renal failure Deteriorating renal function Blood in urine (haematuria) and/or blood in sputum (haemoptysis) Pulmonary haemorrhage Vasculitis
Reference Range
<7 U/mL = Negative
7 – 10 U/mL = Equivocal
>10 U/mL = Positive
Sample Required RST (rust top)
Sample Volume 5-10 mL (1 mL serum)
Turnaround Time 5 days