Pemphigus Vulgaris: Gastrointestinal Features

Abstract

Pemphigus vulgaris is a chronic autoimmune disease due to antibodies against proteins involved in cell-to-cell binding within the epidermis. There is an equal gender distribution with the disease often manifesting itself in the fifth or sixth decade. Incidence has been estimated at 0.1/100,000 persons, but it is more common in Middle East and Asia. Mucous membranes are usually affected before any cutaneous lesions manifest.

The most common gastrointestinal symptoms include:

Odynophagia, dysphagia, emesis, hematemesis

Oral ulcers, then cutaneous manifestations

May involve: oropharynx, skin, esophagus, conjunctiva, nasal mucosa, larynx, urethra, vulva, cervix

Esophageal involvement is often asymptomatic but may present with esophagitis