DRUG-THERAPY - MANAGEMENT OF ACQUIRED BULLOUS SKIN DISEASES

A variety of skin diseases, autoimmune and inherited, are characterized by the presence of blisters. In some, such as pemphigus vulgaris, blistering is the primary manifestation. In others, such as lichen planus, blisters are infrequent. Most of these diseases are associated with substantial morbidity; a few may result in death. Although the general approach to the treatment of these diseases is similar, the diagnosis of the specific disease is important, because the most appropriate dosage and timing of some commonly used medications vary considerably. This review covers the management of the major acquired bullous diseases; diseases only rarely associated with. © 1995, Massachusetts Medical Society. All rights reserved.