Pemphigus is a group of rare autoimmune diseases that affect the skin and mucous membranes. Pemphigus affects people of all ages and ethnicities, but is more common in people of Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, and Jewish ancestry. Pemphigus is caused by autoantibodies that attack the desmosomal proteins in the skin and mucous membranes, leading to the formation of blisters and erosions. 

The hallmark feature of pemphigus is the presence of flaccid blisters that break easily and leave behind erosions. The blisters can occur on any part of the body, including the scalp, face, chest, and back. In severe cases, the blisters can involve the mucous membranes of the mouth, throat, and genital area. Treatment of pemphigus typically involves the use of corticosteroids and other immunosuppressive medications to control inflammation and prevent blister formation. In severe cases, hospitalization and intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) or plasma exchange may be necessary. 

In this module, we will focus on the epidemiology, pathogenesis, clinical features, diagnosis, workup, and treatment of pemphigus in the field of dermatology.

Select how you would like to proceed below:

1. Bolognia JL, Schaffer JV, Cerroni L. Dermatology. Elsevier; 2018.
2. Wieczorek M, Czernik A. Paraneoplastic pemphigus: a short review. Clinical, cosmetic and investigational dermatology. 2016; 9:291.