Bullous Pemphigoid and Other Pemphigoid Dermatoses

The pemphigoid family of dermatoses is characterized by autoimmune subepidermal blistering. The classic paradigm for pemphigoid, and the most common member, is bullous pemphigoid. Its variable clinical presentation, with or without frank bullae, is linked by significant pruritus afflicting the elderly. Mucous membrane pemphigoid is an umbrella term for a group of subepidermal blistering dermatoses that favor the mucosal membranes and can scar. Epidermolysis bullosa acquisita is a chronic blistering disorder characterized by skin fragility, sensitivity to trauma, and its treatment-refractory nature. Clinicians that encounter these pemphigoid disorders may benefit from an overview of their clinical presentation, diagnostic work-up, and therapeutic management, with an emphasis on the most frequently encountered pemphigoid disease, bullous pemphigoid.

Automated summary

The pemphigoid family of dermatoses is characterized by autoimmune subepidermal blistering, with the most common member being bullous pemphigoid, which typically presents with significant pruritus in the elderly. Mucous membrane pemphigoid is a group of subepidermal blistering dermatoses that favor mucosal membranes and may lead to scarring. Epidermolysis bullosa acquisita is a chronic blistering disorder with skin fragility, sensitivity to trauma, and resistance to treatment. Clinicians may benefit from an overview of the clinical presentation, diagnostic work-up, and therapeutic management of these pemphigoid disorders, with a focus on bullous pemphigoid.