pemphigus

Pemphigus ( or ) is a rare group of blistering autoimmune diseases that affect the skin and mucous membranes. The name is derived from the Greek root 'pemphix', meaning 'pustule'.In pemphigus, autoantibodies form against desmoglein. Desmoglein forms the 'glue' that attaches adjacent epidermal cells via attachment points called desmosomes. When autoantibodies attack desmogleins, the cells become separated from each other and the epidermis becomes detached, a phenomenon called acantholysis. This causes ...