What is Bullous pemphigoid?

autoimmune condition causing sub-epidermal blistering of the skin

What patient groups is Bullous pemphigoid most common?

elderly patients

What are the main clinical features of Bullous pemphigoid?

• itchy, tense blisters typically around flexures
• the blisters usually heal without scarring
• there is stereotypically no mucosal involvement

What are the Skin biopsy findings in Bullous pemphigoid?

immunofluorescence shows IgG and C3 at the dermoepidermal junction

How is Bullous pemphigoid diagnosed?

biopsy

What is the management of Bullous pemphigoid?

• oral corticosteroids are the mainstay of treatment
• topical corticosteroids, immunosuppressants and antibiotics are also used

What is the pathophysiology of Bullous pemphigoid?

antibodies against hemidesmosomal proteins BP180 and BP230