blistering disorders

Question 1

what is bullous pemphigoid?

Answer 1

a blistering skin disorder which usually affects the elderly

Question 2

what is the cause of bullous pemphigoid?

Answer 2

autoantibodies against antigens between epidermis + dermis causing a sub-epidermal split in skin

Question 3

how does bullous pemphoigoid present?

Answer 3

tense, fluid filled blisters on an erythematous base

lesions often itchy, can be preceded by a non-specific itchy rash

common sites- trunk + limbs (mucosal involvement less common)

Question 4

what is the management of localised bullous pemphigoid?

Answer 4

1) general- wound dressings when needed, monitor for infx signs
2) topical steroids

Question 5

what is the management of widespread bullous pemphigoid?

Answer 5

oral therapies:
oral steroids
tetracycline + nicotinamide
immunosuppressive agents eg azathioprine, mycophenolate, mofetil, methotrexate

Question 6

what is pemphigus vulgaris?

Answer 6

a blistering skin disorder which usually affects middle-aged

Question 7

what is the cause of pemphigus vulgaris?

Answer 7

autoantibodies against antigens wtihin the epidermis causing an intra-epdiermal split in he skin

Question 8

how does pemphigus vulgaris present?

Answer 8

flaccid, easily ruptured blisters forming erosions + crusts

lesions often painful + affecs mucosal areas- precedes skin involvement

Question 9

what is the management of pemphigus vulgaris?

Answer 9

1) general- wound dressings, monitor for infx signs, good oral care if oral mucosa involved
2) oral therapies- high-dose oral steroids, ummunosuppressive agents eg methotrexate