Test for Pemphigus
Pemphigus is a rare skin disorder that results in blisters. The blisters associated with the condition are commonly found on the skin, in the mouth, or on the genitals. According to the Mayo Clinic, pemphigus usually appears in people middle-age or older. However, it has been known to affect people of all ages. Pemphigus is more common in people of Middle Eastern or Jewish descent.
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Symptoms
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Blisters are typically the first sign of pemphigus. There are three types of the condition: pemphigus vulgaris, paraneoplastic pemphigus and pemphigus foliaceus. Depending on the location of the blisters, they can be quite painful or very itchy. The first two types of pemphigus are associated with painful blisters. Pemphigus foliaceus involves itchy blisters.
Testing
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Pemphigus is uncommon and sometimes difficult to diagnose. Blisters can be associated with several medical conditions. Doctors typically check a patch of skin without blisters to see whether the top layer separates easily from the lower layers. A biopsy might be performed on a blister to identify the antibodies found within. Finally, a blood test might be performed to detect antibodies in the blood. Because it is so rare, pemphigus is often the last disease considered during a diagnosis, according to the International Pemphigus Foundation.
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Treatment
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Pemphigus is usually a chronic condition. Medications prescribed to treat it might be similar to those used on severe burns. Corticosteroids such as prednisone are used to bring pemphigus under control, according to the International Pemphigus Foundation. Some patients go into remission, but many require a small, continual dose to keep the condition under control. Complications with pemphigus include infection of the skin. Infection that spreads to the bloodstream can be deadly, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Causes
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Pemphigus is an autoimmune disorder. It is unknown exactly what triggers it. According to the Mayo Clinic, the less widespread pemphigus is, the easier it might be to control. Treatment is used to control symptoms and prevent complications.
When to Call
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A person who has been treated in the past for pemphigus should contact a doctor immediately if new blisters or sores develop. Fever, chills and achy muscles or joints also warrant a call to the doctor. Once pemphigus is under control, most people are able to continue their normal lives. According to the International Pemphigus Foundation, the biggest lifestyle impact comes from side effects of prednisone.
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References
- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Charles Williams
