Pemphigus and Pemphigoid
Pemphigus and Pemphigoid are two conditions which cause blisters, both of which are due to antibodies attacking components of the skin - in other words autoimmune diseases. In pemphigus the blisters are large and thin walled, because the antibodies attack the epidermis at a rather superficial level. This means they burst rather easily, leaving raw exposed areas. Any part of the body may be affected, and the mucous membranes inside the mouth usually are. Because the antibodies in pemphigoid are directed more deeply in the epidermis the blisters produced are thicker walled and tense. It affects an older age group, and usually spreads from the legs up to the trunk. There are blood tests which may help to distinguish between the two, as will biopsy of one of the blisters. As with other autoimmune diseases, treatment with agents that suppress the activity in the immune system will be required, which may need to be prolonged. Also as with other autoimmune diseases, the reason why these occur is obscure.
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