Bullous pemphigoid

Treatment:

Treatment is focused on relief of symptoms and prevention of infection.

Corticosteroids are the treatment of choice. They are given by mouth or by injection. Topical (applied to a localized area of the skin) corticosteroids may also be used on early, localized lesions.

Other medications may include chemotherapy medications such as methotrexate, azathioprine, or cyclophosphamide. Antibiotics such as tetracycline or erythromycin may also be given. Niacin (a B complex vitamin) may also be used to manage this condition.

Expectations (prognosis):

Bullous pemphigoid is a relatively benign disorder that tends to be chronic, with flare-ups after long remissions.

Complications:

Infection of the skin lesions is the most common complication.

Calling your health care provider:

Call your health care provider if symptoms indicate bullous pemphigoid may be present.

Call your health care provider if fever, redness or pain of the skin, drainage that looks like pus, or other signs of infection occur.