Pemphigus vulgaris (PD) and mucous membrane pemphigoid (MMP) are both autoimmune mucocutaneous blistering diseases. PD and MMP are characterized by the existence of autoantibodies that react with antigens in the keratinocytes’ cell surface.
Such antigens cause intraepithelial and subepidermal blister formation in PD and MMP patients. In the case of PD, the most commonly affected sites in the human body include the oral cavity, which starts having erosions which heal slowly. In the case of MMP, a recurrent conjunctival inflammation occurs, which results in subepithelial fibrosis, cicatricial entropion, and possible trichiasis.
Both PD and MMP must be managed by a team of professionals who should address different clinical manifestations. There are several therapies available to PD and MMP patients, including corticosteroids, administered together with immunosuppressive agents including azathioprine and methotrexate.