Bullous pemphigoid

• A
• B
• C
• D
• E
• F
• G
• H
• I
• J
• K
• L
• M
• N
• O
• P
• Q
• R
• S
• T
• U
• V
• W
• X
• Y
• Z

Bullous pemphigoid, close-up of tense blisters

• Bullae (large blisters, thin-walled sacs filled with clear fluid, greater than 1 cm diameter)
  • Multiple
  • Usually located on the arms, legs, or trunk
  • May also occur in the mouth
  • May weep, crust over
  • May appear deep below the surface of the skin
  • May erode the skin, form ulcers or open sores
• Itching
• Rashes
• Mouth sores
• Bleeding gums

A skin lesion biopsy shows a characteristic blistering pattern. A special type of skin biopsy may also be performed and examined by direct immunofluorescence. Some physicians may additionally order blood tests to help confirm the diagnosis.

Review Date: 04/30/2005
Reviewed By: Jonathan Kantor, M.D., Department of Dermatology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.