In the past, the various forms of pemphigus have been grouped together primarily on the basis of similarities in clinical findings. These clinical distinctions have been enhanced recently by histopathologic study of the acantholytic changes in the epidermis. These 2 features, namely the clinical examination and the histopathologic changes noted in cutaneous biopsy, have been employed in this present study to amplify the understanding of pemphigus foliaceus.
Recent clinical experience with patients diagnosed as having either pemphigus erythematodes (Senear-Usher syndrome) or pemphigus foliaceus indicates that many features are common to both conditions. A single plaque of blisters, scaling papules or erosions, frequently on the scalp, face, thorax, or back, is commonly present for weeks to months, or even years, prior to the development of numerous lesions in these same regions or in even more generalized areas over the body. Persistence of lesions in previously involved zones is characteristic.
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