Moderate to severe pemphigus vulgaris
Moderate to Severe Pemphigus Vulgaris: A Review
Pemphigus vulgaris is an autoimmune disorder that affects the skin and mucous membranes. It is a rare condition that causes blisters and sores to form on the skin and inside of the mouth. It is often treated with a combination of corticosteroids and immune-suppressing drugs. In some cases, there may be a need for additional treatments, such as oral antibiotics, topical medications, or laser therapy.
The disease can be divided into two categories: mild pemphigus vulgaris and moderate to severe pemphigus vulgaris. This article will focus on the latter, providing an overview of its signs and symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatments.
Signs and Symptoms
The signs and symptoms of moderate to severe pemphigus vulgaris include:
- Painful blisters or sores on the skin (especially around the head, torso, and extremities)
- Ulcerations in the mouth
- Itching, stinging, and/or burning in the affected areas
- Crusting of the skin
- Hair loss in the affected areas
Causes
The cause of moderate to severe pemphigus vulgaris is not known. It is believed to be an autoimmune disorder, meaning that the body’s immune system is attacking its own cells. It is also possible that changes in the amount of antibodies in the blood may be responsible for the condition.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of moderate to severe pemphigus vulgaris is usually made based on physical examination, medical history, and laboratory tests. In some cases, such as when the diagnosis is uncertain, a skin biopsy may be needed.
The doctor may also order a variety of other tests, including a blood count and blood chemistry, skin allergy testing, and antibody tests in order to rule out other possible causes of the condition.
Treatment
The treatment of moderate to severe pemphigus vulgaris typically involves a combination of medications. Corticosteroids, such as prednisone, are usually used first to reduce inflammation. Immunosuppressive drugs, such as cytarabine or azathioprine, may be used next to reduce the activity of the immune system. Other medications, such as dapsone, ceftazidime, or methotrexate, may also be used in some cases.
In addition to medications, other therapies, such as phototherapy, laser therapy, or topical treatments, may be used to help reduce the pain and discomfort of the condition. It is important to follow the treatment plan prescribed by your doctor and to let them know if you are having any difficulties with the treatments.