Pemphigus vulgaris

TL;DR

Pemphigus vulgaris is an autoimmune disease leading to blistering of the skin and mucous membranes, potentially life-threatening. It’s more common in Ashkenazi Jews and people of Mediterranean origin, with symptoms ranging from mouth sores to affecting genital areas. Treatment focuses on reducing inflammation and autoantibody production through steroids and immunosuppressants.

Pemphigus vulgaris is an autoimmune condition that causes blistering of the skin and mucous membranes. Pemphigus vulgaris can be life-threatening.

Pemphigus vulgaris has an increased incidence in Ashkenazi Jews and those of Mediterranean origin, but otherwise has an estimated incidence of 0.5-3.2 cases per 100,000 people.

Pemphigus vulgaris can affect any age group, with the average age of onset 50-60, however it has appeared in children and the elderly.

Symptoms of pemphigus vulgaris

  • Soft blister with clear fluid inside
  • Affects the mouth
  • Slow healing erosions in the mouth
  • May affect the vulva, labia, vagina, cervix, oesophagus, conjunctiva, urethra, and anus

Causes of pemphigus vulgaris

The cause is unknown, however the circulating antibodies are directed at the cell surface of keratinocytes. There are several forms of pemphigus – vulgaris, foliaceus and paraneoplastic. Over 70 per cent of pemphigus cases are vulgaris. It can be triggered by some medication.

Treatment of pemphigus vulgaris

Typical treatment is steroids and immunosuppressants. The point of treatment is to reduce the inflammatory response and autoantibody production.



Jessica Lloyd - Vulvovaginal Specialist Naturopathic Practitioner, BHSc(N)

Jessica is a degree-qualified naturopath (BHSc) specialising in vulvovaginal health and disease, based in Melbourne, Australia.

Jessica is the owner and lead naturopath of My Vagina, and is a member of the:

  • International Society for the Study of Vulvovaginal Disease (ISSVD)
  • International Society for the Study of Women's Sexual Health (ISSWSH)
  • National Vulvodynia Association (NVA) Australia
  • New Zealand Vulvovaginal Society (ANZVS)
  • Australian Traditional Medicine Society (ATMS)
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