Radiation-induced bullous pemphigoid: A systematic review of an unusual radiation side effect

Exacerbation of Pemphigus Foliaceus After Electron-beam Radiation

“…This is compatible with several theories proposed previously. One theory is that radiotherapy itself changes antigenic properties and induces autoantibody production through the alteration of the antigen with unmasking (2,12). Also in the present case, electron-beam might damage the epidermis in and outside of irradiation field and induce unmasking and alteration of the antigen, resulting in establishment of potential basis for exacerbation of PF.…”

Pemphigus vulgaris of the larynx and upper gastro-intestinal tract induced by radiotherapy

“…In exceptional instances, PV can also be provoked by ionizing radiation therapy. Recently, a systematic review determined that PV might be considered as a radiotherapy-induced side effect [4]. We report a case of mucosal and esophageal PV without skin manifestations induced by radiotherapy.…”

“…In a recently published systematic review of radiation-induced bullous pemphigoid [4], 27 cases were found. The majority (89%) experienced blistering confined to the irradiated area, and there was no report of mucosal pemphigus.…”

“…Several theories have been proposed. One is that radiotherapy itself changes antigenic properties and induces autoantibody formation through the alteration of the basal membrane with unmasking of the antigen [4,9]. Another possible explanation is that patients who developed PV after radiation may already have circulating low-titer anti-basement membrane antibodies, and the tissue damage through radiotherapy may enhance the deposition of antibodies [4,9].…”

Malignancy in Relation to Autoimmune Blistering Dermatoses: Molecular and Clinical Aspects

“…It may be possible, that the distortion of cell cohesion in neoplastic cells leads to exposing normally hidden antigens or new epitopes are recognized by the immunocompetent cells. There are reports mentioning overlapped breast cancer and BP [20,84] as well as reports describing the evoking of autoimmune blistering dermatosis after breast radiotherapy [216][217][218], that may change antigenicity of the malignant cells.…”