PEMPHIGUS FOLIACEUS Meaning and
Definition
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Pemphigus foliaceus is a rare, chronic autoimmune disorder characterized by the formation of skin blisters or lesions. It falls under the broader classification of pemphigus, which encompasses a group of blistering diseases. Pemphigus foliaceus specifically affects the superficial layers of the skin, causing the detachment of skin cells and the formation of painful or itchy blisters.
This condition occurs due to the production of autoantibodies, which mistakenly target and attack a specific protein (desmoglein 1) responsible for cell adhesion in the skin. As a result, the integrity of the skin is compromised, leading to the formation of fragile and easily rupturing blisters. Pemphigus foliaceus often first presents with blistering in the scalp, face, and upper body, gradually spreading to other regions of the body.
Diagnosis of pemphigus foliaceus involves both physical examination and laboratory tests. A skin biopsy is typically performed to evaluate the presence of blister formation and to confirm the presence of specific antibodies. Treatment options for pemphigus foliaceus aim to suppress the immune response and control symptoms. Immunosuppressive drugs, such as corticosteroids and immunosuppressants, are commonly prescribed to reduce inflammation and prevent further blistering.
Pemphigus foliaceus may have significant impacts on a person's quality of life, causing pain, discomfort, and potentially leading to secondary infections. Long-term management and close monitoring are crucial to prevent relapses and complications.
In conclusion, pemphigus foliaceus is an autoimmune disorder that results in the formation of blisters and lesions on the skin due to the immune system targeting specific proteins involved in cell
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A form of p. in which the lesions persist and rupture, leaving denuded surfaces exuding a seropurulent fluid which dries on the surface; nearly the entire body may finally become involved and the buccal mucous membrane is often affected as well; it causes death from exhaustion.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for PEMPHIGUS FOLIACEUS
- pemphigus foliaceuq
- pemphigus foliaceur
- pe mphigus foliaceus
- pemph igus foliaceus
- pemphi gus foliaceus
- pemphig us foliaceus
- pemphigu s foliaceus
- pemphigus f oliaceus
- pemphigus fo liaceus
- pemphigus fol iaceus
- pemphigus foli aceus
- pemphigus folia ceus
- pemphigus foliac eus
- pemphigus foliace us
- pemphigus foliaceu s
Etymology of PEMPHIGUS FOLIACEUS
The word "pemphigus" originates from the Greek word "pémphix" (πέμφιξ), which means "bubble" or "blister". "Foliaceus" is derived from the Latin word "folium", meaning "leaf".
In medical context, "pemphigus foliaceus" refers to a rare autoimmune skin disease characterized by the formation of superficial blisters and erosions that resemble leaf-like scales on the skin. The term "pemphigus foliaceus" was coined to describe the specific clinical presentation of this skin condition.
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