Anti-muscarinic-acetylcholine-receptor-subtype-M3 (M3AchR), and anti-secretory-pathway-Ca2+/Mn2+-ATPase-isoform-1 (SPCA1) auto-antibodies have been suggested as potential targets in pemphigus. However, their role during the course of pemphigus remains poorly characterized. The objective of the study was to determine the frequency, evolution and pathogenicity of anti-SPCA1 and anti-M3AchR auto-antibodies in pemphigus. Anti-SPCA1 and anti-M3AchR IgG were detected in almost one-third of sera from patients with pemphigus. We demonstrated their in vitro pathogenic activity, alone or in combination. Anti-SPCA1 and anti-M3AchR auto-antibodies were associated with a higher risk of relapse and may help clinicians in patient management.
Tedbirt et al. (Mon,) studied this question.