Abstract:

Pemphigus vulgaris (PV) is an autoimmune disease characterized by intraepithelial blistering and erosions of the skin and the mucous membranes. In some cases life-threatening complications may occur.

PV is usually diagnosed in middle-aged or older people, as the skin and/or the mucosa of the oral cavity, nasal cavity, esophagus, larynx and pharynx are affected. It is clinically presented as chronic progressive disease. PV is first manifested as primary lesions described as soft blisters filled with fluid, which then rupture and are replaced by erosions and ulcers. Prior to corticosteroid use and the symptomatic therapeutic strategies, poor clinical outcomes due to dehydration, malnutrition, and secondary infection have been quite common.

We present a clinical case of a patient with a severe oral form of PV. The main aim is to clarify the main aspects related to the severity of the disease, its pathogenesis, as well as the difficulties in diagnosis, which causes delay in treatment.

Keywords: oral pemphigus, mucosal blistering, oral lesions