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[Localized bullous pemphigoid following radiotherapy]
C Leconte-Boulard1, A Dompmartin, L Verneuil
1Service de Dermatologie, CHU, avenue Georges-Clémenceau, 14033 Caen Cedex.
Annales De Dermatologie Et De Venereologie
|March 16, 2000
Summary
Bullous pemphigoid, a blistering skin disease, can occur in radiation therapy areas. This case highlights localized bullous pemphigoid developing 16 years post-radiotherapy, confirmed by advanced microscopy.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Autoimmune Diseases
- Oncology
Background:
- Bullous pemphigoid (BP) is the most common autoimmune blistering disease.
- BP induction is linked to drugs and irradiation.
- Localized BP following radiotherapy is rare.
Observation:
- A 66-year-old woman developed a blistering rash exclusively on a previously irradiated area (breast carcinoma).
- The rash appeared 16 years after radiotherapy.
- Diagnosis was confirmed via histopathology, direct immunofluorescence (DIF), and electron microscopy.
Findings:
- Direct immunofluorescence and immunoelectron microscopy were crucial for diagnosis.
- The localized nature suggests factors beyond regional antigen variation.
- Successful treatment with topical steroids was achieved.
Implications:
- This case expands understanding of localized bullous pemphigoid.
- It emphasizes the need to consider radiotherapy history in diagnosing unusual skin conditions.
- Further research into the pathogenesis of radiation-induced localized BP is warranted.