Blistering Diseases Treatment in Midland, TX
What are Blistering Diseases?
Blistering diseases are a range of skin conditions that cause the formation of blisters on the body. Blistering diseases can vary in severity and can be caused by various factors, including autoimmune disorders, viral infections, and genetic disorders. It is important to understand the causes and symptoms of blistering diseases so you can get an accurate diagnosis from your dermatologist.
Common Types of Blistering Diseases
The most common types of blistering diseases include epidermolysis bullosa, pemphigus vulgaris, pemphigoid, bullous impetigo, staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome (SSSS), dermatitis herpetiformis, and porphyria cutanea tarda. These conditions may affect different areas of the body and their symptoms can range from mild to severe.
- Epidermolysis Bullosa (EB) is a rare genetic condition in which blisters form after minor trauma or rubbing to the skin.
- Pemphigus Vulgaris (PV) is an autoimmune disorder that causes blisters to form on the face, scalp, genitals and inside the mouth. This condition can be life threatening.
- Pemphigoid is another autoimmune disorder that causes blisters on areas such as the arms, legs, trunk or scalp.
- Bullous Impetigo is a contagious bacterial infection that mostly affects children under two years old and causes fluid-filled blisters on the body.
- Staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome (SSSS) occurs when bacterial toxins damage skin cells resulting in large red patches with a thin top layer of skin across parts of the body.
- Dermatitis Herpetiformis is an itchy rash made up of small blisters that often appears on elbows, knees or buttocks.
- Porphyria Cutanea Tarda (PCT) is caused by an enzyme deficiency or a change in the way the liver processes alcohol which results in purple-colored spots appearing on sun-exposed areas such as arms and hands.
What are the Symptoms of Blistering Diseases?
The primary symptom of all blistering diseases is painful inflammation and blister formation. Other symptoms may include fever, joint pain or swelling depending on the type of disease present.
Who Develops Blistering Diseases?
While anyone can develop blistering diseases, they disproportionately affect adults over the age of 50 and children under the age of 10. In general, blistering diseases occur when the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells instead of protecting them. This can lead to fragile and blister-prone skin, as well as other associated symptoms, such as fever and joint pain. In addition, people with compromised immune systems, such as those undergoing chemotherapy or those with HIV/AIDS, are more likely to develop some forms of blistering diseases, due to their weakened immune system’s inability to fight off bacteria or viruses that cause these conditions.
Treatment for Blistering Diseases
Treatment for blistering diseases vary depending on the individual diagnosis, but often includes medications to control inflammation, antibiotics for secondary infection, and topical treatments to address affected areas. While there currently isn’t a cure for most forms of blistering diseases, there are treatments available that can help reduce symptoms and improve quality of life for those affected by these conditions.
Schedule an Appointment
If you’re looking for treatment for blistering diseases in Midland, Texas, we would love to see you at Midland Dermatology! Our board-certified dermatologists and certified physician assistants can help diagnose, manage and treat your skin condition.
For more information or to schedule an appointment at Midland Dermatology, call 432-689-2512.
*The content provided in this post is for informational purposes and does not diagnose or treat any medical conditions or diseases. Always seek guidance from a physician regarding any medical concerns you may have.
