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Definition

Bullous pemphigoid is a skin disorder characterized by large blisters.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

The cause is not known, but may be related to immune system disorders.

Bullous pemphigoid usually occurs in elderly persons and is rare in young people. Symptoms come and go. In most patients, the condition goes away within 6 years.

Symptoms

Some people may have no symptoms, others may have mild redness and irration.

In severe cases, they are multiple blisters, called bullae. The blisters are usually located on the arms, legs, or middle of the body. About one-third of persons with bullous pemphigoid also develop blisters in the mouth. The blisters may break open and form ulcers or open sores.

Other symptoms may include:

Signs and tests

Tests that may be done to help diagnose this condition include:

Treatment

Power anti-inflammatory medicines called corticosteroids may be prescribed. Some corticosteroids are taken by mouth, while others require a shot (injection). In persons with early forms of the disease, corticosteroid creams may be used.

Your doctor may prescribe chemotherapy or medicines to help suppress the immune system.

Antibiotics called tetracyclines may be useful in mild cases. Niacin (a B complex vitamin) is sometimes given along with tetracycline.

Expectations (prognosis)

Bullous pemphigoid usually responds well to treatment. Most patients may stop taking medicine after several years. However, the disease sometimes returns after treatment is stopped.

Complications

Skin infection is the most common complication.

Calling your health care provider

Call your doctor for an appointment if you have:

  • Unexplained blisters on your skin
  • An itchy rash that continues despite home treatment
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14y ago

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Related Questions

How would bullous pemphigoid affect the epidermis?

Bullous pemphigoid is a skin disease that causes blisters. ... How does bullous pemphigoid (BP) progress? ... BP is not infectious and you cannot catch it from anaffected person. ... In people with BP, antibodies are made against the membrane between the top layer of skin (the epidermis) and the next layer (the dermis). So, it will be OK if it did anything to the epidermis and it would just put blisters and other things like that on the epidermis if the Bullous pemphigoid is so bad that it reaches the epidermis.


Can bullous pemphigoid kill you?

Bullous pemphigoid is generally not considered life-threatening, but it can lead to serious complications, especially in elderly individuals or those with weakened immune systems. The condition causes painful blisters and can lead to secondary infections, which may pose health risks. Additionally, severe cases can result in significant discomfort and impact quality of life. Prompt medical treatment is essential to manage symptoms and prevent complications.


What service does the Bullous Emphysema website offer?

There are many services that the Bullous Emphysema website offers. The main service that the Bullous Emphysema website offers is educating people on the disease.


What does the word bullous mean in medical terms?

A bulla is a large blister; bullous means comprising or resembling large blisters.


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What is DIF test related to skin biopsy?

Direct Immunofluorescence: Staining cells with antibodies directly linked to fluorochromes is known as direct immunofluorescence (DIF). Multiple antibodies may be detected on one sample.


What is bullous formation?

Bullous formation is the development of large, fluid-filled blisters on the skin. These blisters can be caused by various conditions such as burns, autoimmune diseases, infections, or allergic reactions. Treatment often involves addressing the underlying cause and providing wound care to prevent infection and promote healing.


Difficult words start in letter B?

boistrous, blepharitis, bonapartism, barbarism bullous, benefactor.


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acelous, philous, zealous, jealous, callous, violous, gallous, perlous, emulous, chylous, villous, zellous, bullous, parlous, idolous, acolous, chalous


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The best location for someone with bullous emphysema is typically a place with a mild climate and low levels of air pollution, as these conditions can help minimize respiratory distress. Coastal areas or regions with clean, fresh air, such as parts of the Pacific Northwest or areas near the Mediterranean Sea, may be beneficial. Additionally, living at lower altitudes can help reduce the strain on the lungs. Access to quality healthcare facilities is also essential for managing the condition.


What lung disease is characterized by bullae?

Emphysema is a lung disease that is characterized by the presence of larger-than-normal air spaces in the lungs called bullae. These bullae can impair lung function and lead to symptoms like shortness of breath.