Derm

Question 1

pemphigus vulgaris (genetics, presenting symptoms)

Answer 1

• autoantibodies against desmoglein-3 , cell-cell adhesion protein in epidermal layer
• results in painful blisters that easily slough off

Question 2

vitiligo (what cell type, and origin of that cell)

Answer 2

• autoantibodies against melanocytes
• melanocytes are derived from neural crest cells
• (also from neural crest cells: adrenal medulla, schwann cells, and sensory and autonomic ganglia)

Question 3

mycobacterium leprae

Answer 3

• leprosy, infection of macrophages
• Th1 response is important for defense response, those who can mount Th1 response have less significant dz, called Tuberculosis leprea
• Tx with INF-gamma, can activate more macrophages and improve symptoms

Question 4

bullous pemphigus vs. pemphigus vulgaris

Answer 4

• bullous: hemidesmosomes at dermoepidermal junction

- vulgaris: desmosomes (desmoglein-3 Ab) at epidermis

Question 5

lime disease

Answer 5

-stage 1: erythema chronicum migricans, ECM, non-specific flu-like symptoms
stage 2: erythematous rashes, neurological and cardiac symptoms (aseptic meningitis)
stage 3: arthritis of large joints, progressive central nervous system dysfunction