Pemphigus vulgaris is a rare autoimmune disease that causes painful blisters on skin and mucous surfaces.
It often starts in the mouth and may spread to the scalp, face, chest, and genitals.
Early recognition helps prevent serious problems like infection, dehydration, or heavy medication side effects.
If you suspect pemphigus vulgaris, see a dermatologist or immunologist fast. The usual tests are a skin or mouth biopsy and direct immunofluorescence. Blood tests can show antibodies against skin proteins called desmogleins. These tests confirm diagnosis and help your doctor choose treatment.
Home care matters.
Treatment controls the immune attack and heals blisters. High‑dose corticosteroids are common at first because they work quickly. Doctors often add steroid‑sparing drugs like azathioprine, mycophenolate mofetil, or methotrexate to reduce long‑term steroid risks. More recently, rituximab — a targeted antibody treatment — has become a leading option and can induce remission for many patients. Your team will balance benefits and risks, including infection risk and blood monitoring needs.
For painful mouth blisters, choose soft foods, avoid spicy or acidic meals, and rinse with salt water or prescribed mouthwashes. Use gentle skin cleansers and pat skin dry. For large or weeping lesions, follow wound care instructions: gentle cleaning, non‑adherent dressings, and regular dressing changes to lower infection risk. Ask your nurse or pharmacist to show you dressing techniques.
Medication side effects are real. Steroids can raise blood sugar, cause weight gain, weaken bones, and change mood. Immunosuppressants increase infection risk and need blood tests for safe use. Keep a list of medications and talk with your doctor about vaccines, travel plans, and any new symptoms such as fever or shortness of breath.
Nutrition and support help healing. If mouth sores make eating hard, try high‑calorie shakes, soft proteins like yogurt and eggs, and small frequent meals. Work with a dietitian when weight loss or malnutrition is a concern. Emotional support matters too; chronic visible disease can cause anxiety or depression. Join a support group or ask your clinic for counseling referrals.
When to seek urgent care: sudden widespread blistering, high fever, signs of infection (increased pain, redness, pus), severe dehydration, or breathing problems. These can be life‑threatening and need immediate medical attention.
Regular follow up keeps treatment on track. Expect periodic exams, blood work, and adjustments in medication. Aim for clear communication with your team. Ask about treatment goals, how long therapy will last, and steps to taper medications safely.
Planning for travel and procedures needs discussion with your doctor. Bring a list of meds, emergency contacts, and simple wound care supplies. If you are pregnant or trying to conceive, tell your team: some drugs are unsafe in pregnancy and choices change. Ask about contraceptive options and timing of vaccine shots. Keep a printable care plan for quick hospital visits or clinic visits. always.
Jul, 1 2023