Antiglomerular Basement Membrane Antibody

Test Description

Goodpasture’s syndrome is an autoimmune disease in which antibodies specific
for renal structural components, such as the glomerular basement membrane in
the kidney, and pulmonary structural components, such as the alveolar basement
membrane, are produced. These antibodies then bind to the tissue antigens, resulting
in an immune response and the development of such problems as necrotizing
glomerulonephritis and hemorrhagic pneumonitis. Because of the renal and pulmonary
complications, kidney and lung biopsies may also be performed.

Normal Values

Negative: <20 units by ELISA

Possible Meanings of Abnormal Values

Increased                                                  

Antiglomerular glomerular nephritis
Goodpasture’s syndrome
Systemic lupus erythematosus

Contributing Factors to Abnormal Values

• Drugs that may decrease test results: antibiotics


  Interventions/Implications

 Pretest
• Explain to the patient the purpose of the test and the need for a blood sample to be drawn.
• Fasting for 8 hours is required before the test.

  Procedure
• A 7-mL blood sample is drawn in a red-top collection tube.
• Gloves are worn throughout the procedure.

Post test
• Apply pressure at venipuncture site. Apply dressing, periodically assessing for continued
  bleeding.
• Label the specimen and transport it to the laboratory.
• Report abnormal findings to the primary care provider.