Pemphigus

**Definition:** Pemphigus is a group of chronic autoimmune skin diseases characterised by blister formation on the skin and the mucous membranes. The exact causes of the disease are unknown but the disease is mediated by auto-antibodies to desmosome components. Three clinical forms have been characterised. Pemphigus vulgaris, pemphigus foliaceus and pemphigus vegetans. Other variants exist, namely intercellular IgA dermatosis and paraneoplastic pemphigus.