Approach to the patient with autoimmune mucocutaneous blistering diseases

Autoimmune mucocutaneous blistering diseases (AMBD) are a rare group of dermatoses that can be potentially fatal. There are many subtypes and their clinical presentation can vary from being localized to general involvement. It is crucial that a diagnosis be made as early as possible and appropriate treatments are implemented. This article will discuss the diagnosis and available treatments of the major AMBDs. There are very few case-controlled studies regarding the treatments of these diseases. Most of the treatments used for these diseases are based on anecdotal reports. Hence, a synopsis of the conventional treatments and some brief recommendations will also be discussed. A brief discussion regarding "rescue" therapies that have been used for those patients with more recalcitrant cases of AMBD will also be presented.