Pemphigus

A rare, serious skin disease in which blisters develop on the skin and in the mouth. Pemphigus primarily affects people aged 40–60. The blisters usually develop in the mouth, before appearing on the skin and then rupturing to form raw areas that may become infected and later crust over. Skin that appears unaffected may also blister after gentle pressure is applied. If a large area of the body is affected, severe skin loss can lead to bacterial infection and, sometimes, death. The diagnosis is confirmed by a skin biopsy. Treatment is with a long-term course of corticosteroid drugs and, sometimes, immunosuppressants. Antibiotics may also be prescribed.