Clinicians' pearls and myths in pemphigus

Ital J Dermatol Venerol. 2021 Apr;156(2):142-146. doi: 10.23736/S2784-8671.21.06810-3.

Abstract

Pemphigus comprises a heterogeneous group of autoimmune blistering diseases, which can affect both skin and mucous membranes, especially oral mucosa. This group of diseases shows usually a chronic-relapsing course. Since pemphigus is a rare disease, the diagnosis is often delayed, because it is based upon the recognition of consistent clinical, histologic, and direct immunofluorescence findings, as well as indirect immunofluorescence, and/or enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Usually the patients are treated for multiple other conditions before starting the correct therapy, leading to a critical reduction of the patients' quality of life. This review is a succinct compilation of pearls gathered from clinical experience in pemphigus and the myths that may have influenced everyday practice but have been proven false. This review provided a selection of such dilemmas and controversies, focusing on myths and pearls that can help young dermatologist in the clinic, while also dispelling them.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Autoimmune Diseases*
  • Blister
  • Fluorescent Antibody Technique, Indirect
  • Humans
  • Pemphigus* / diagnosis
  • Quality of Life