Pemphigus vulgaris

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Pemphigus, vulgaris - lesions in the mouth

Pemphigus, vulgaris on the back

Pemphigus vulgaris is an autoimmune skin disorder characterized by blistering of the skin and mucous membrane.

Pemphigus involves blistering of the outer (epidermal) layer of the skin and mucous membranes. It is an autoimmune disorder in which the immune system produces antibodies against specific proteins in the skin and mucous membrane. These antibodies produce a reaction that leads to a separation of epidermal cells. The exact cause of the development of antibodies against the body's own tissues is unknown.

Sometimes pemphigus appears in reaction to medications, although this is rare. Pemphigus may be a side effect of certain blood pressure medications (ACE inhibitors) or chelating agents (medications, such as penicillamine, that remove certain materials from the blood).

Pemphigus is uncommon. It occurs almost exclusively in middle-aged or older people of all races and ethnic groups. About one-half of the cases of pemphigus vulgaris begin with blisters in the mouth, followed by skin blisters. The blisters (bullae) are relatively asymptomatic, but the lesions become widespread and complications develop rapidly and may be debilitating or fatal.

Review Date: 07/27/2006
Reviewed By: Shlomit Halachmi, MD, PhD, Private Practice Specializing in Dermatology, Somerville, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.