Mucous membrane pemphigoid in HIV patient: a case report
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Updated: Jun 27, 2026
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Published on: June 17, 2025
Adriana Demathé1, Lívia T Arede, Glauco I Miyahara
1Department of Pathology and Propaedeutics, School of Dentistry, Araçatuba Campus, São Paulo State University, Araçatuba, São Paulo, Brazil. adrianademathe@yahoo.com.br.
Background:
Mucous Membrane Pemphigoid (MMP) is a rare group of chronic autoimmune disorders characterized by blister producing lesions. It is the variant most likely to occur in the oral cavity and eyes. Few studies shows autoimmune bullous diseases associated with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).
Case Presentation:
oral blisters, painful ulcerations and eye symblepharon were observed in a patient with HIV infection. The histopathologic exam showed a subepidermal blister and the overall features were suggestive of MMP.
Conclusion:
In this case, the MMP was associated with HIV. Interactions with the immune system may lead to the development of this autoimmune process.
Insights
Mucous Membrane Pemphigoid (MMP), an autoimmune blistering disease, was observed in a patient with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). This case highlights a potential link between immune system interactions and the development of MMP in HIV patients.
Area of Science:
- Immunodermatology
- Autoimmune Blistering Diseases
- Viral Immunology
Background:
- Mucous Membrane Pemphigoid (MMP) is a rare chronic autoimmune disorder causing blistering lesions, often affecting the oral cavity and eyes.
- Autoimmune bullous diseases are infrequently reported in association with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV).
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a case of Mucous Membrane Pemphigoid (MMP) occurring in a patient with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV).
- To explore the potential association between HIV infection and the development of MMP.
Main Methods:
- Clinical observation of oral blisters, painful ulcerations, and ocular symblepharon in an HIV-infected patient.
- Histopathologic examination revealing a subepidermal blister, consistent with MMP.
Main Results:
- The patient presented with clinical and histopathologic features suggestive of Mucous Membrane Pemphigoid (MMP).
- The observed MMP was associated with a concurrent Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection.
Conclusions:
- This case suggests a potential association between Mucous Membrane Pemphigoid (MMP) and Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection.
- Immune system dysregulation in HIV may contribute to the pathogenesis of autoimmune processes like MMP.
