Paraneoplastic pemphigus

Paraneoplastic Pemphigus is a rare, multiorgan autoimmune disease that is associated with malignancies. It is characterized by painful mucosal erosions and polymorphous skin lesions. The disease is often associated with lymphoproliferative disorders such as non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, chronic lymphocytic leukemia, and Castleman's disease.

Etiology[edit | edit source]

The exact cause of Paraneoplastic Pemphigus is unknown. However, it is believed to be an autoimmune disorder, which means the body's immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells. In the case of Paraneoplastic Pemphigus, the immune system attacks the skin and mucous membranes.

Symptoms[edit | edit source]

The symptoms of Paraneoplastic Pemphigus can vary greatly from person to person. However, common symptoms include:

Painful sores in the mouth and on the lips
Skin rashes, often on the chest, back, and abdomen
Blisters on the skin and mucous membranes
Severe conjunctivitis
Difficulty swallowing due to sores in the esophagus

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

Diagnosis of Paraneoplastic Pemphigus often involves a combination of clinical findings, histopathology, immunofluorescence studies, and serology. A skin biopsy is often performed to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment of Paraneoplastic Pemphigus is primarily aimed at managing the symptoms and treating the underlying malignancy. This may involve the use of corticosteroids, immunosuppressive drugs, and other therapies.

Prognosis[edit | edit source]

The prognosis for individuals with Paraneoplastic Pemphigus is generally poor, with a high mortality rate. The prognosis is often dependent on the underlying malignancy and the individual's response to treatment.

See Also[edit | edit source]

Paraneoplastic pemphigus Resources
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