Autoimmune Skin Disease

Your immune system is made up of cells and organs that protect your body against bacteria, fungus, parasites, or viruses that can cause infections. When your immune system can not perform it's job, a disorder or disease of your immune system can occur. That is what happens when you have an autoimmune skin disease.

Bullous Phemphigoid

• Bullous phemphigoid is a chronic blistering of the skin. Symptoms can begin with a rash, or itching, which can be in one area or over your whole body. These blisters can occur on your abdomen, groin, inner thighs and arms.

Treatments

• This disease can be treated with corticosteroid drugs that will help reduce inflammation. Antibiotics may also be prescribed, along with Niacin. Chemotherapy or other medications to suppress your immune system are other treatment options.

Pemphigus Vulgaris

• This type of autoimmune skin disease is the most common. Painful blisters can form on your scalp, trunk and other areas.

Causes/Treatments

• There are certain medications, such as ACE inhibitors, that can treat this disease. Treatments may include fluids, antibiotics and antifungal medications.

Complications

• Medication side effects, secondary skin infections, spread of infection or dehydration can occur, according to Medline Plus.