Skin blisters Flashcards
What is bullous pemphigoid?
Acquired autoimmune disease caused by IgG antibodies against basement membrane, causing sub-epidermal blisters
What are Sx of bullous pemphigoid?
Itchy skin pre-blisters
Tense blisters, 1-3cm, on inflamed or normal skin
Flexors affected
Oral cavity and eye can be affected
What are risk factors for bullous pemphigoid?
Age 60-90
Genetics
Male
What Ix for bullous pemphigoid?
Skin biopsy with immunofluorescence and histopathology
What is pemphigus?
A group of autoimmune disorders caused by IgG autoantibodies directed against desmosomal components leading to acantholysis
What are types of pemphigus?
Vulgaris
Paraneoplastic
Foliaceus
What are Sx of pemphigus?
Flaccid superficial blisters, burst easily, widespread erosions
Oral mucosa is often affected
Nikolsky’s sign positive
Painful
What are risk factors for pemphigus?
Younger people
genetics
underlying malignancy in the pareneoplastic variant
Ashkenazi Jews
What Ix for pemphigus?
Skin biopsy with immunofluorescence
How are blistering conditions treated?
Steroids
Infection control for blisters (dressings)
Screen for underlying malignancy
