Epidermolysis bullosa acquisita: a rare challenge in dental management

Dentists often have the opportunity to detect and intercept serious patient medical conditions. Their role may even be central in helping patients overcome fears about their condition and motivating them to obtain an accurate diagnosis and proper treatment. This article features the case of an elderly woman who presented for treatment of painful intraoral mucosal blisters and erosions beneath her dentures and was diagnosed with potentially fatal epidermolysis bullosa acquisita (EBA). Given how quickly improper diagnosis and treatment could lead to morbidity and potential mortality-especially in a susceptible elderly patient-this case illustrates the importance of good communication between all health professionals involved in the multidisciplinary management of patients with challenges as complex and rare as EBA. The successful outcome of this case was directly dependent on the propitious initiative and intervention of the dentist.