Autoimmune blistering skin diseases

Abstract

Autoimmune blistering diseases are a rare group of disorders characterized by blistering and/or erosions of the skin and/or mucous membranes. There may be associated skin fragility and scarring. An accurate and timely diagnosis affects the management and prognosis. This is usually achieved through a careful history, thorough mucocutaneous examination and histology and immunofluorescence tests of skin and serum. It is important to determine the level of blister formation as this distinguishes subepidermal from intraepidermal diseases.