Management of Suspected Pemphigus Vulgaris in Elderly Patient with Chronic Diseases

Pemphigus vulgaris (PV) is a group of vesicobullous disease that affects skin and mucous membranes. PV is associated with autoimmune diseases, characterized by binding of IgG autoantibodies to desmoglein 3 on desmosome. The lesion of PV is a thin-walled bulla arising on the normal skin or mucosa. The bulla of oral mucous are more fragile and rapidly break down, forming irreguler ulcers. There are several factors that can trigger PV including genetic factors, age, drugs and food. The purpose of this paper was to report the treatment of suspected pemphigus vulgaris in elderly patient with history of chronic diseases. A 75- year-old woman with 2 months history of bulla formation on skin and about a month history of persistent oral ulceration. Ulcers were covered with fibrin and erosive erythematous on labial mucosa, buccal mucosa and gingival. The patient has a history of hypertension, diabetes mellitus and hepatitis. On routine complete blood count was found thrombocytopenia. Diagnosis was confirmed by anamnesis, clinical examination and complete blood investigation. It should be distinguished from other vesicobullous disease. Systemic corticosteroid therapy was given concurrently with hepato-protector, mouthwash, supportive therapy and topical lip cream. Bulla on skin and persistent erosive ulcers of the oral mucosa are the manifestations of PV. Elderly patient with history of chronic diseases is a complex care of PV and thus require more intensive and comprehensive treatment.