Pemphigus vulgaris: a therapeutic option for disease control
Da Silva, A.V.; Valones, M.A.; Guimaraes, R.P.; de Castro, J.F.L.; Carvalho, A.d.A.T.
General Dentistry 56(7): 700-703
2008
ISSN/ISBN: 0363-6771 PMID: 19014030 Document Number: 617706
Pemphigus vulgaris (PV) is an autoimmune intra-epithelial dermatologic disease that is characterized by epithelial blistering and affected cutaneous and/or mucosal surfaces. The disease is caused by circulating immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies directed against desmosomes. These antibodies interfere with keratinocyte adhesion, causing acantholysis, which results in blister formation. At present, death from pemphigus infection is unusual; however, morbidity and mortality from chronic corticosteroid use remain considerable, indicating a need for additional therapies. This article presents a case of PV in a female patient that was treated with conventional corticosteroid therapy and discusses recent adjuvant therapy.