What are Pemphigus and Pemphigoid diseases?

What are Pemphigus and Pemphigoid diseases

Pemphigus: Blistering autoimmune diseases that affect the skin and mucous membranes. Usually Desmogleins or “the glue” that attaches adjacent epidermal cells are attacked and the cells become separated.

Pemphigoid: Is also autoimmune disease like pemphigus, however unlike pemphigus, pemphigoid does not feature the loss of desmogleins but rather the basement membrane of the epidermis is attacked.   There are several types of pemphigus and pemphigoid which vary in severity and will also determine the location, nature, and severity of blisters. Pemphigus vulgaris, the most common of the pemphigus diseases, affects the skin and mucous membranes.   In conclusion, these are difficult to diagnose autoimmune disorders which affect less than 200,000 people in the U.S. There is no cure for these diseases however they effectively treated by high doses of IVIG.

Awareness, early detection, and increasing knowledge about these diseases are crucial to improve patient care. For more information or a complete list of the most common types, please visit www.pemphigus.org