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Updated: Jun 30, 2026

Granulocyte-dependent Autoantibody-induced Skin Blistering

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.

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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.