Pemphigus
Other Names: Pemphigus Vulgaris, Pemphigus Foliaceus,
Paraneoplastic Pemphigus (associated with malignancy)
Pemphigus is a group of chronic autoimmune skin disorders
that attack proteins in the skin causing them to separate
leaving blisters and lesions that rupture easily.
It can range from a mild disorder to a severe, painful
condition requiring hospitalization with treatment
very similar to burn treatment.
The blisters and lesions caused by Pemphigus typically
appear anywhere on the skin, scalp and mucous membranes
(nose, throat, rectum, mouth, etc.). The blisters
rupture easily and will drain and ooze. After healing,
they usually do not leave scars.
Another cause of Pemphigus can be the use of blood
pressure medications called ACE inhibitors, but usually
once the medication is stopped the condition will
clear up on it's own.
Severe Pemphigus break outs can become infected causing
serious complications such as infections and sepsis
(when the infection spreads into the blood stream).
Symptoms:
Blisters and pustules on the palms of hands and soles
of the feet
Blisters on the skin
Clear, soft blisters that open but do not heal
Pain in mouth
Diagnosis:
The first step towards diagnosing Pemphigus is a
physical examination of the blisters and lesions,
and the doctor may perform simple swab-swipes of any
drainage. A skin lesion biopsy may also be performed
to rule out other conditions and confirm a Pemphigus
diagnosis.
Treatment:
Milder Pemphigus cases may only require treatment
with Corticosteroids and lifestyle adjustments such
as avoiding bumping up against things that may cause
a blister and caring for any open blisters and lesions
with dressings and medicated lotions.
Immunosuppressant therapy may also be used to reduce
the immune response against the skin, and antibiotics
may be used to treat or prevent infections during
break outs.
More sever cases that are widespread may require
hospitalization with treatment very similar to burn
treatment since infection risks are high.
Prognosis:
Prognosis is typically good for mild cases that are
well treated. Taking the proper measures to control
break outs allow most patients to live normal lives.
In more severe cases, it is very important to seek
medical attention when break outs are widespread as
the risk of infection and sepsis are very high and
can be fatal.
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