Navigating Bullous Pemphigoid: Consensus Recommendations for Diagnosis and Management-A Canadian Perspective.

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Autoimmune Diseases
• Clinical Practice Guidelines

Background:

• Bullous pemphigoid (BP) is a severe autoimmune blistering skin disease.
• Increasing prevalence due to an aging population necessitates improved management strategies.
• BP significantly impacts quality of life and carries a mortality risk.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop practical, evidence-based recommendations for diagnosing and managing bullous pemphigoid.
• To focus on disease management within the Canadian healthcare context.
• To provide guidance for healthcare providers on optimal patient care.

Main Methods:

• A panel of 9 Canadian dermatologists identified key diagnostic and management topics.
• A literature review combined with expert clinical opinion informed the recommendations.
• A modified Delphi process with an 80% consensus cut-off was used to finalize statements.

Main Results:

• Eighteen practical recommendations for bullous pemphigoid diagnosis and management were approved by expert consensus.
• The recommendations address critical aspects of patient care.
• Consensus was achieved through iterative review and virtual meetings.

Conclusions:

• The developed recommendations offer practical guidance for healthcare providers managing bullous pemphigoid in Canada.
• These guidelines aim to enhance the recognition and appropriate management of BP.
• The consensus statements support evidence-based clinical practice for this autoimmune condition.