Pemphigus vulgaris is a rare autoimmune disorder of the skin which produces blisters and sores of the skin and mucous membranes.

Depending on the appearance of blisters it can be of two types:

Pemphigus vulgaris: painful blisters appear in the mouth in the beginning and then spread to genitals and skin. They are more sore and painful but don’t itch.

Pemphigus foliaceus: blisters appear on the chest, back and shoulders which itch more and are less painful.

RISK FACTORS

Pemphigus increases in middle aged or older. More common in people of middle Eastern orJewish descent.

COMPLICATIONS

  • Infection may spread to the blood streams
  • The sores in the mouth are painful thus making eating difficult which might cause malnutrition
  • Infected skin
  • If left untreated the condition may be life threatening

SYMPTOMS AND CAUSES

Symptoms

  • Painful blisters that start in the mouth or skin areas( pemphigus vulgaris) which then spread. In pemphigus foliaceus the blisters appear on chest, back and shoulders.
  • Burning sensation of the skin.
  • Itching and pain.
  • Skin blisters near the surface of the skin that come and go.
  • Oozing, crusting or peeling at the blister site.

Causes

The exact cause that triggers it is not known but it is an autoimmune disorder in which the immune cells start damaging the skin and mucous membrane.

DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of pemphigus can be a bit tricky but following tests and procedures can help in diagnosis:

  • Blood test: to look for antibodies.
  • Biopsy: to study cell cytology.
  • Endoscopy: to look for mouth and throat sores.

Treatment

Treatment for pemphigus includes antibiotics, antivirals, antifungals, corticosteroids but these treatments are not permanent and safe. Thus homeopathic treatment is the best treatment for pemphigus.

MANAGEMENT

  • Maintain hygiene.
  • Eat healthy diet.
  • Keep yourself hydrated.
  • Avoid infection on the skin.

HOMEOPATHIC MANAGEMENT

There are medicines like caltha palustris, cantharis, mancinella, ranunculus sceleratus, juglans cinerea, rhus tox. But medicine depends on the presentation of the case and should never be taken without consulting a registered homeopath. Homeopathy has permanent cure for pemphigus.

DO’s AND DON’Ts

Do’s

  • Eat healthy foods
  • Maintain hygiene

Don’ts

  • Don’t rub or itch