Subepidermal deposition of immunoglobulin in NZB/NZW F hybrid mice.

The dermal-epidermal junction of NZB/NZW F1 hybrid mice is a site of immunoglobulin (Ig) deposition. This produces a fluorescent band which is very similar to that seen in the skin of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus. The deposition of Ig in the mouse skin is first observed at six months of age and increases in frequency thereafter. After an initial lag of 1 to 2 months, it parallels the age-related deposition of Ig in the kidney. The observed temporal relationship between glomerular and cutaneous Ig deposition supports the concept that the presence of immunoglobulin in the skin is highly indicative of the presence of immune complexes in the kidney.