A case of epidermolysis bullosa acquisita with initial symptoms in the oral cavity

Abstract

Epidermolysis bullosa acquisita is an autoimmune blistering disease in which the type VII collagen of the epidermis basement membrane is the antigen. We encountered a case of epidermolysis bullosa acquisita with initial symptoms on the oral mucosa. The case involved an 82-year-old man referred to our hospital for diagnosis of oral blisters. We diagnosed epidermolysis bullosa acquisita using immunoserology. Symptoms improved after administration of a steroid and colchicine. At eight months after the start of treatment, the patient continued to take prednisolone (10 mg/day) and colchicine (1.0 mg/day) without worsening of oral symptoms that would have impaired quality of life. Extensive blistering in the oral mucosa is highly likely to cause poor pain control and decreased oral intake, and the role of oral hygiene management and symptomatic treatment is very important.