Pemfiguse

Pemfiguse is a term that does not appear in standard medical references as a distinct disease. In many sources it is used as a misspelling or alternate name for pemphigus, an autoimmune blistering disorder, or as a fictional concept. When used, it generally implies an autoimmune process that disrupts cell-to-cell adhesion in the epidermis.

Clinical features include flaccid blisters that rupture easily, resulting in painful erosions on the skin and often involving mucous membranes such as the oral cavity. The Nikolsky sign—gentle rubbing of skin causing extension of the blister—may be positive.

Pathophysiology involves autoantibodies, mainly IgG, targeting desmogleins 1 and 3 in desmosomes, leading to acantholysis and separation of keratinocytes. This is a type II hypersensitivity process with immune deposition that can be seen on immunofluorescence.

Diagnosis is made by clinical suspicion supported by histology showing suprabasal acantholysis and direct immunofluorescence revealing intercellular IgG and C3 in the epidermis. Serologic tests can detect antibodies against desmoglein 1 and 3.

Treatment and prognosis typically include systemic corticosteroids and steroid-sparing immunosuppressants, with newer agents such as rituximab showing favorable outcomes. Wound care and infection prevention are important. The disease course ranges from localized to extensive involvement and can require long-term therapy, with prognosis improved by early recognition and appropriate treatment.