Understanding Pemphigus: Causes, Symptoms, and Management

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Pemphigus

by Alike Medical Team ∙ Updated on June 13, 2023

General

Pemphigus is a disease that causes blisters and sores on the skin or mucous membranes, such as in the mouth or on the genitals. Pemphigus can occur at any age, but it's most often seen in people who are middle-aged or older. It tends to be a chronic condition, and some types can be life-threatening without treatment.

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Signs & symptoms

Pemphigus causes blisters on the skin and mucous membranes. The blisters rupture easily, leaving open sores, which may ooze and become infected. The signs and symptoms of two common types of pemphigus are as follows: * Pemphigus vulgaris- This type usually begins with blisters in your mouth and then on your skin or genital mucous membranes. The blisters typically are painful but don't itch. Blisters in your mouth or throat may make it hard to swallow and eat. * Pemphigus foliaceus- This type causes blisters on the chest, back and shoulders. The blisters tend to be more itchy than painful. Pemphigus foliaceus doesn't cause mouth blisters. Pemphigus is distinct from bullous pemphigoid, which is a blistering skin condition that affects older adults and may cause death.

Diagnosis

Blisters occur with a number of more common conditions, so pemphigus, which is rare, can be difficult to diagnose. Your doctor may refer you to a specialist in skin conditions (dermatologist). the doctor will talk with you about your medical history and examine your skin and mouth. In addition, you may undergo tests, including: * A skin biopsy * Blood tests * An endoscopy

Treatment

The following prescription medications may be used alone or in combination, depending on the type and severity of your pemphigus and whether you have other medical conditions: * Corticosteroids * Steroid-sparing immunosuppressant drugs * Other medications- If first-line drugs aren't helping you, the doctor may suggest another drug, such as dapsone, intravenous immunoglobulin or rituximab. Many people get better with treatment, although it may take years. Others need to take a lower dose of medication indefinitely to prevent their signs and symptoms from returning. And some people need treatment in a hospital.

Note

☝ We provide information on prescription and over-the-counter medicines, diagnosis, procedures and lab tests. This material is provided for educational purposes only and is not medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

National Institutes of Health ∙ World Health Organization ∙ MedlinePluse ∙ Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

☝ All information has been reviewed by certified physicians from Alike

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