LAST UPDATED: Apr 11, 2023
The immunobullous disorders represent a group of conditions characterised by an antibody‐mediated autoimmune response against structural elements of the skin resulting in blistering of the skin and mucosae. Antibody targets include proteins in hemidesmosomes and the basement membrane zone (pemphigoid group), anchoring fibrils in the papillary dermis (epidermolysis bullosa acquisita), desmosomes (pemphigus group) and epidermal transglutaminase (dermatitis herpetiformis). If left untreated, immunobullous disorders may be associated with significant morbidity and mortality so prompt, accurate diagnosis and treatment are essential.
This chapter, which is set out as follows, provides only a brief overview, signposting to more detailed chapters:
Immunobullous conditions present in a variety of ways including:
The number of immunobullous conditions is extensive, for more information on diagnostics, other conditions, and further images please refer to the following resources:
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