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Pemphigus vulgaris

Overview

Open all pages about Pemphigus vulgaris

The main symptom of pemphigus vulgaris is blisters in the mouth and on the skin that burst easily and leave sore patches.

There’s no cure for pemphigus vulgaris, but long-term treatment with steroids and other medicines can usually help control the symptoms.

If you have blisters from pemphigus vulgaris, things that can help include brushing your teeth with a soft toothbrush and mint-free toothpaste.

Pemphigus vulgaris can lead to serious problems, including life-threatening infections, pain and problems with the teeth and gums.

Pemphigus vulgaris is caused by the immune system attacking and damaging the skin. It’s not clear exactly why this happens.

If you have pemphigus vulgaris, support is available from your care team and charities like the Pemphigus Vulgaris Network or PEM Friends.

Pemphigus vulgaris is a rare long-term condition that causes blisters and sore patches in the mouth and on the skin.

Page last reviewed: 30/05/2022
Next review due: 30/05/2025