Pemphigus

Disease Overview

Pemphigus is a group of rare autoimmune diseases that cause blistering of the skin and mucous membranes (mouth, nose, throat, eyes, and genitals).[2090] This condition can occur at any age, but often strikes people in middle or older age. Studies have shown that some populations may be at greater risk for certain types of pemphigus. For instance, people of Jewish descent and those from India, Southeast Europe, and the Middle East are at greater risk for pemphigus vulargis, while pemphigus foliaceus is more common in North America, Turkey, and South America.[2093] Pemphigus is a chronic disease which is best controlled by early diagnosis and treatment.[2091] Treatment includes steroids to reduce inflammation, drugs that suppress the immune system response and antibiotics to treat associated infections.[2090][2092]

There are four main types of pemphigus:[2093]