In pemphigus disorders the immune system perceives the skin and mucous membranes as foreign and an immune response is triggered. Although it is controllable with heavy immunosuppressive treatment there is no cure available and, if left untreated, the disease can prove fatal. PV is very rare, with most GPs never encountering the disease. This can lead to mis-diagnosis of the condition. Causes Research studies shows a genetic disposition to the disease, but although researchers have identified a variety of possible triggers, these remain speculative.
Affected individuals have high concentrations of antibodies produced by the immune system.
This often occurs first in the mouth, but lesions can cover a significant area of the skin. The disease is non-infectious. Symptoms Someone with PV may feel ill a lot of the time, even if the disease is under control. A patient can be either in remission or have the condition under control, but still experience some blistering lesions. The sensation has been compared to having a candle burning in the throat.