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Updated: Jun 30, 2026
12:23
Granulocyte-dependent Autoantibody-induced Skin Blistering
Published on: October 12, 2012
Pemphigus vulgaris affecting 19 nails
A Patsatsi1, E Sotiriou, D Devliotou-Panagiotidou
1First and Second Departments of Dermatology, Medical Schooll, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece.
Clinical and Experimental Dermatology
|September 18, 2008
Summary
Pemphigus vulgaris (PV) can cause severe nail changes, including inflammation and onychomadesis. Early diagnosis and corticosteroid treatment led to complete recovery and remission in a rare case of extensive nail involvement.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Immunology
- Pathology
Background:
- Pemphigus vulgaris (PV) is a rare autoimmune blistering disease affecting the skin and mucous membranes.
- Nail involvement in PV is infrequently reported and presents a diagnostic challenge due to its varied manifestations.
Observation:
- A 60-year-old woman presented with painful oral erosions, scalp plaques, and significant nail abnormalities.
- Nail findings included onychomadesis of fingernails, and severe inflammation, paronychia, and hemorrhage in toenails.
Findings:
- Histopathology, direct/indirect immunofluorescence, and Tzanck smear confirmed pemphigus vulgaris.
- Acantholytic cells were identified in a subungual lesion, supporting the diagnosis.
Implications:
- This case highlights the diverse and severe nail manifestations possible in pemphigus vulgaris.
- Prompt diagnosis and systemic corticosteroid therapy can lead to complete resolution and remission of nail involvement in PV.
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