Pemphigus Symptoms & Diagnosis

Symptoms

Itching and pain are common symptoms. Pemphigus may occur over a small or large section of the skin. Symptoms differ among the types.

Pemphigus Vulgaris

Blisters usually start in the mouth or on the scalp
Lesions progress to the face, neck, upper body, armpits, and groin
Blisters also may occur in the esophagus, rectum, nose, throat, larynx (voice box), eyes, vulva, or rectum
Surrounding skin may be red or normal color
Pressure on the blister may cause it to expand into surrounding tissue
Outer layer of skin can easily be rubbed off
Blisters are soft and break easily, releasing fluid
Open sores are painful
Large areas of skin may open up, increasing the risk of fluid imbalance and infection
Blisters usually heal without scarring, but skin color may change to brown

Pemphigus Foliaceus

Blisters are itchy or produce a burning sensation
Sores are usually not found in the mouth or on other mucus membranes
Blisters usually first show up on the face, scalp, chest, or upper back
Blisters open, causing shallow sores
Skin is red
Scales and crusts form
Sunlight may make symptoms worse

Paraneoplastic Pemphigus

Sores occur on the mucous membranes, in the mouth, eye, and esophagus
Blisters often appear on palms of hands and soles of feet
Lesions are itchy or painful

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. This will include a thorough skin exam. Special care is given to examining the lesions.

Tests may include: