What is Pemphigoid?
Pemphigoid is a group of rare autoimmune disorders that cause blistering of the skin and mucous membranes. It happens when the immune system attacks the area between the outer and underlying skin layers.
What causes Pemphigoid?
Pemphigoid is caused by the immune system producing antibodies that target proteins in the skin’s basement membrane, leading to blister formation. Triggers may include genetics, infections, medications, or other autoimmune diseases.
What types of Pemphigoid are there?
- Bullous Pemphigoid: The most common type, affecting mainly older adults with large, tense blisters on the skin.
- Mucous Membrane Pemphigoid: Affects mucous membranes like the mouth, eyes, and genitals, often causing painful sores and scarring.
- Other rare forms include pemphigoid gestationis (during pregnancy) and linear IgA disease.
What are the symptoms of Pemphigoid?
Symptoms include:
- Large, fluid-filled blisters that don’t rupture easily
- Itching and redness around blisters
- Painful sores and possible scarring on mucous membranes
- Potential eye damage in mucous membrane pemphigoid
How is Pemphigoid diagnosed?
Diagnosis includes:
- Skin and mucous membrane examination
- Skin biopsy with immunofluorescence testing
- Blood tests to detect antibodies
- Tests to rule out other blistering disorders
How is Pemphigoid treated?
Treatment involves:
- Corticosteroids (topical and systemic) to reduce inflammation
- Immunosuppressive drugs like azathioprine or methotrexate
- Antibiotics such as tetracycline for their anti-inflammatory effects
- Biologics (e.g., rituximab) in difficult cases
- Proper skin care to prevent infection and aid healing
What is the prognosis for Pemphigoid?
- Bullous pemphigoid generally responds well to treatment with many patients achieving remission.
- Mucous membrane pemphigoid can be more severe and cause lasting damage if untreated.
- Ongoing follow-up is important to manage relapses and medication side effects.
How can patients live well with Pemphigoid?
- Regular dermatology appointments and monitoring
- Avoiding skin injury and irritants
- Careful wound management and infection prevention
- Seeking emotional and community support
- Joining support groups for autoimmune skin diseases