Oral management of pemphigus vulgaris in the intensive care unit

Spec Care Dentist. 2020 May;40(3):280-284. doi: 10.1111/scd.12454. Epub 2020 Mar 12.

Abstract

Pemphigus vulgaris (PV) is a rare and potentially lethal autoimmune disease that affects the skin and mucous membranes. Injuries caused by the disease cause pain, risk of infection, and other complications that result in a high mortality rate. Frequently, management of the PV requires intensive care and a multidisciplinary approach. Oral lesions of PV are usually the first clinical signs of the disease and the last lesions to heal, requiring treatment by a specialized dental team. The aim of this study was to report two clinical cases of PV with involvement of the oral mucosa. The patients were admitted to an intensive care unit, and underwent multidisciplinary management of their condition along with low-level laser therapy. Both cases demonstrated the importance of specialized dental care in improving the quality of life of patients with PV.

Keywords: ICU; oral mucosa; pemphigus vulgaris.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Administration, Oral
  • Humans
  • Intensive Care Units
  • Mouth Mucosa
  • Pemphigus*
  • Quality of Life