Pemphigus vulgaris in adolescence: case report

Pemphigus vulgaris is an uncommon mucocutaneous disease caused by autoantibodies against desmosomal antigens. It affects mainly middle-aged adults, and juvenile cases are rare. The authors present a case of pemphigus vulgaris in adolescence and review the literature. A 16-year-old girl showed oral and cutaneous lesions suggestive of pemphigus vulgaris. Histopathology and direct immunofluorescence of the oral mucosa confirmed the diagnosis and systemic steroid therapy was efficient in controlling the disease. The recognition of the oral lesions of pemphigus by the clinician, its early diagnosis, and prompt therapy are essential for a favorable prognosis.