DIF
Medical abbreviation · Dermatology
| Stands for | Direct immunofluorescence |
|---|---|
| Categories | Medical |
DIF stands for Direct immunofluorescence, a dermatology abbreviation.
Laboratory technique that uses fluorescent antibodies on a skin biopsy to detect antibody and complement deposits, essential for diagnosing autoimmune blistering diseases and some forms of lupus and vasculitis. The biopsy is taken from skin next to a lesion.
Example: Perilesional biopsy sent for DIF in Michel's medium; H&E biopsy from blister edge.
Usage notes
Patterns are distinctive: linear IgG and C3 along the basement membrane in pemphigoid, intercellular "fishnet" IgG in pemphigus and granular IgA in the dermal papillae in dermatitis herpetiformis. Samples are sent in special transport medium or fresh, not formalin. Indirect immunofluorescence (IIF) tests the patient's serum instead.
Related abbreviations
More dermatology abbreviations
- AK – Actinic keratosis
- BCC – Basal cell carcinoma
- BP – Bullous pemphigoid
- CSU – Chronic spontaneous urticaria
- CTCL – Cutaneous T-cell lymphoma
- DH – Dermatitis herpetiformis
- DLE – Discoid lupus erythematosus
- DLQI – Dermatology Life Quality Index
- DRESS – Drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms
- EASI – Eczema Area and Severity Index
- ED&C – Electrodesiccation and curettage
- EM – Erythema migrans
See all 52 dermatology abbreviations →
This entry is for general education and is not medical advice. Abbreviation use varies between institutions; always confirm in context.