Nikolsky’s sign

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Nikolsky's sign

Skin layers

There is no home care for the majority of conditions associated with a positive Nikolsky's sign -- most affected people are hospitalized. Pemphigus is a chronic disease and is treated both at home and in the hospital.

• you or your child develop loosening, redness, and blistering of the skin without an obvious cause.

Note: This finding is usually discovered by the health care provider.

The affected person will be hospitalized, as the conditions associated with Nikolsky's sign are serious. Medical history is obtained and a physical examination performed. Intravenous fluid and intravenous antibiotics may be used.

Medical history questions documenting Nikolsky's sign in detail may include:

• When did you first notice that the skin was red or blistered?
• What other symptoms occur at the same time?

Review Date: 05/03/2006
Reviewed By: Michael S. Lehrer, M.D., Department of Dermatology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.