Pemphigus vulgaris
Overview
Pemphigus vulgaris is a rare long-term condition caused by a problem with the immune system. It causes blisters in the mouth and on the skin. It can be very serious, but treatment can help control it.
Symptoms
Pemphigus vulgaris causes blisters that burst easily and leave very sore patches.
Causes
Pemphigus vulgaris is caused by a problem with the immune system, which is the body’s defence against infection. Instead of attacking germs, something goes wrong with the immune system and it attacks the skin by mistake. This damages the skin and causes blisters to appear. It’s not clear why this happens. It’s not passed on in families and it’s not caused by an infection, so it cannot spread to other people.
Treatment
If a GP thinks you could have pemphigus vulgaris, they can refer you to a skin specialist (dermatologist) for tests and treatment. Blisters caused by pemphigus vulgaris usually come and go over time. There's no cure, but treatment can help. The main treatments are: steroid tabletsother medicines such asazathioprine,methotrexateand rituximab It usually takes a few weeks for the blisters to heal. Once this happens, you'll probably need treatment for several years to help stop the blisters coming back. It may be possible to stop treatment eventually. If the blisters come back, you may need to repeat treatment.
Prevention
Unknown.
When to see a doctor
See GP/Dentist if: severe mouth ulcers; blisters on skin.