Bullous Pemphigoid(Bull-us Pem-fee-goyd)
by
Cynthia M. Johnson, MA DefinitionBullous pemphigoid is an autoimmune disorder that causes blistering of the skin.
CausesThe immune system normally attacks foreign matter to prevent or stop infections. When the immune system attacks healthy tissue it is called an autoimmune disorder. In bullous pemphigoid, the immune system attacks tissue just below the top layer of skin. The exact cause of bullous pemphigoid or autoimmune disorders in general is not clear. Some bullous pemphigoid may be associated with other immune diseases such as diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis. Risk FactorsBullous pemphigoid is more common in people aged 60 years and older. In a small number of cases bullous pemphigoid may occur after:
SymptomsSevere itching of the skin is often the first sign. Eventually an eczema-like or hive-like rash and blistering will develop. Blisters are usually clear and are most commonly seen on the arms, legs, abdomen, and mouth, usually along creases in the skin. The blisters can break and form ulcers. It may be a few years between the start of itching and the appearance of a rash. DiagnosisYou will be asked about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. You may be referred to a skin specialist. Tests may be done to help distinguish bullous pemphigoid from other conditions with similar symptoms. Tests may include:
TreatmentBullous pemphigoid responds well to treatment and usually resolves completely within 5 years. Talk with your doctor about the best treatment plan for you. Options include: MedicationsCertain medications may help lower the immune system and decrease damage to the skin. Medication options may include:
Antibiotics or antiseptic medications may also be used to prevent or treat infections in broken skin. Skin CareBlisters will be left intact when possible. However, blisters that interfere with daily tasks may be drained. Proper skin care will decrease the risk of infection in damaged skin. PreventionSince the cause is not clear, there is no known way to prevent bullous pemphigoid. RESOURCES:American Academy of Dermatology https://www.aad.org American Osteopathic College of Dermatology http://www.aocd.org CANADIAN RESOURCES:Canadian Dermatology Association http://www.dermatology.ca Health Canada https://www.canada.ca References:Bullous pemphigoid. Cleveland Clinic website. Available at: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases_conditions/hic-bullous-pemphigoid. Updated September 18, 2015. Accessed December 15, 2017. Bullous pemphigoid. DermNet NZ website. Available at: ...(Click grey area to select URL) Updated January 2016. Accessed December 15, 2017.
Bullous pemphigoid. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at:
http://www.dynamed.com/topics/dmp~AN~T115053/Bullous-pemphigoid
. Updated April 9, 2017. Accessed December 15, 2017.
Bullous pemphigoid. NHS Choices website. Available at: ...(Click grey area to select URL) Updated December 5, 2015. Accessed December 15, 2017. Bullous pemphigoid. Primary Care Dermatology Society website. Available at: ...(Click grey area to select URL) Updated September 6, 2015. Accessed December 15, 2017. Last reviewed November 2018 by
EBSCO Medical Review Board
Michael Woods, MD FAAP Last Last Updated: 5/3/2016 |
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