Pemphigus erythematosus

Pemphigus erythematosus is simply a localized form of pemphigus foliaceus with features of lupus erythematosus.

Signs and symptoms
Pemphigus erythematosus patients typically present with superficially eroded lesions, or vesiculobullae, that may ooze and crust. This is especially common in areas of the body that are exposed to the sun, like the back, upper chest, and face.

The symptoms of pemphigus erythematosus usually appear slowly and progress slowly. The patient might not even be aware that their pemphigus erythematosus is photosensitive, even though the distribution of the lesions should indicate that they were induced by sunlight.

Causes
Pemphigus patients experience an autoimmune reaction that targets desmosomes. pemphigus erythematosus relapse has been linked to atorvastatin use. There has been one report of a new case of pemphigus erythematosus following topical ingenol mebutate treatment.

Diagnosis
Skin biopsies are used to diagnose pemphigus erythematosus. Immunofluorescence studies are performed on perilesional skin.

Treatment
It has been demonstrated that immunoadsorption and plasmapheresis are useful treatments for pemphigus erythematosus.