bullous-pemphigoid : Symptoms, Causes, Treatment & Prevention

What are the causes of Bullous Pemphigoid?

It's not understood why autoimmune diseases like bullous pemphigoid happen, but it's thought something triggers the immune system to attack the body's own tissues. Certain medicines and sunburn have been known to act as a trigger.

How is Bullous Pemphigoid (BP) diagnosed?

The diagnosis may not be clear at first. There are other causes of skin blisters and mouth erosions. Also, the early symptoms (before blisters appear) may look like eczema or allergy. If your doctor suspects that you have BP, they will refer you to a skin specialist. Tests are usually done to confirm the diagnosis. These are:

•  A small sample (biopsy) of skin may be taken. This is looked at under the microscope and tested to confirm that the blisters are due to BP.
• A blood test can detect the antibody that causes BP (the BP auto-antibody). The antibody may also be detected in urine or in blister fluid.

What are the treatments of Bullous Pemphigoid?

Powerful anti-inflammatory medicines called corticosteroids may be prescribed. They may be taken by mouth or applied to the skin. Medicines to help suppress the immune system may be prescribed are usually also needed.

Antibiotics in the tetracycline family may be useful. Niacin (a B complex vitamin) is sometimes given along with tetracycline.

Your provider may suggest self-care measures. These may include:

•  Applying anti-itch creams to the skin
• Using mild soaps and applying moisturizer to the skin after bathing
• Protecting the affected skin from sun exposure and from injury