Bullous Pemphigoid – A Rare Disease Case Report

Abstract

Bullous pemphigoid is a rare, chronic and a most common blistering disorder, characterized by the appearance of
large fluid-filled blisters on the skin. It can be diagnosed based on clinical, immunologic, and histological criteria
and is most commonly found in elderly persons. These blisters are often found on areas of the skin in the regions
such as – lower abdomen, upper thighs or armpits. It manifests clinically with diffuse eczematous (inflamed or
irritated skin), pruritic (unpleasant sensation that desires to scratch), urticarial-like lesions (reddish flat patches or
swellings), eventually with the appearance of tense bullae or blisters typically filler with clear fluid. It is an autoimmune disorder, in which our body produces antibodies to the fibers that connect the outer layer of skin
(epidermis) and the next layer of skin (dermis) and finally triggering the inflammation process, which leads to the
production of blisters. The major aim of this case report is to present a typical case of this condition, to bring
awareness on several treatment options, and to advocate referral to a dermatologist given its potential severity.
Multiple treatment opportunities have been found for this condition, including anti-inflammatory medications that
reduce antibody formation, and treatments to increase the elimination of antibodies.