Oral presentation and management of vesiculobullous disorders

Vesiculobullous diseases are frequently encountered by the practicing dermatologist. However, these disorders are often difficult to diagnose and manage. The oral cavity may be overlooked as a source of diagnostic information. Oral manifestations of vesiculobullous diseases may occur independently or precede cutaneous involvement by a year or more. Maintenance of oral hygiene, discomfort that results in poor hydration and nourishment, and secondary infection must be addressed to assure disease control and patient comfort. The three vesiculobullous disorders that occur most commonly in the oral cavity are pemphigus vulgaris, cicatricial pemphigoid, and erythema multiforme. This article will discuss their oral presentation, diagnosis, and management.