bullosa

Bullosa is a dermatological term describing conditions that form bullae—large fluid-filled blisters—on the skin or mucous membranes. It does not denote a single disease but a range of disorders that share blister formation, including inherited skin fragility disorders, autoimmune blistering diseases, infectious conditions, and certain drug reactions.

Blister formation can be classified by the level of skin separation (intraepidermal or subepidermal) and by etiology. Notable examples include inherited disorders such as epidermolysis bullosa; autoimmune diseases such as bullous pemphigoid and pemphigus vulgaris; and infectious conditions such as bullous impetigo and staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome. Drug-induced blistering reactions also occur.

Clinical presentation varies by disease but commonly includes bullae, erosions after rupture, and sometimes mucosal involvement. Diagnosis relies on history and examination, skin biopsy with histology, and direct immunofluorescence for autoimmune diseases. Genetic testing is important for inherited forms, and evaluation for infection, dehydration, and nutritional status is essential.

Management depends on the underlying cause and emphasizes wound care, infection prevention, and pain control. Autoimmune blistering diseases often require corticosteroids and steroid-sparing agents, immunosuppressants, or biologics such as rituximab. Epidermolysis bullosa requires multidisciplinary care focused on wound management, nutrition, and prevention of complications. Infections like bullous impetigo are treated with appropriate antibiotics. Prognosis varies with the specific condition, and early treatment improves outcomes.

Terminology: bullosa highlights blistering rather than a single disease. The term is most common in specialist dermatology contexts, where management often involves coordinated care across multiple specialties.