What should you know about pemphigus vulgaris and foliaceus?

Both conditions occur when the immune system targets proteins that help skin cells adhere. Pemphigus vulgaris can produce fragile blisters and painful raw areas in the mouth, followed by or alongside skin involvement. Pemphigus foliaceus usually causes superficial blisters, crusting, or erosions on the skin and generally does not involve the mouth.

A blistering rash has several possible causes. Diagnosis may involve an examination, a skin biopsy, and laboratory testing on tissue or blood. Do not burst blisters or apply strong creams without advice.

Arrange review with a dermatologist if blisters, crusts, or painful erosions keep appearing. Keep damaged skin clean, cover tender areas with a non-stick dressing, and avoid friction. For mouth involvement, choose soft foods and gentle oral care while awaiting assessment.

Treatment is tailored to disease extent and other health conditions. It may include [Oral Corticosteroid Treatment](/treatments/medical-dermatology/oral-corticosteroid-therapy/) or a steroid-sparing option such as [Biologic Therapy](/treatments/medical-dermatology/biologic-therapy/). Medicines require monitoring because suppressing immune activity can affect infection risk and other body systems.

Seek urgent medical help if mouth sores prevent drinking, swallowing becomes difficult, breathing feels affected, blisters spread quickly, or large areas of skin become raw. Fever, increasing warmth, pus, or rapidly worsening pain can signal infection in damaged skin.

Until assessed, avoid adhesive dressings on fragile skin and do not stop prescribed treatment suddenly. Prompt care helps protect hydration, nutrition, and the skin barrier.

Ask whether the findings fit vulgaris, foliaceus, or another blistering disorder; which tests are needed; how wounds should be dressed; and how treatment monitoring will work. Ask what symptoms should trigger same-day advice.