Treatment of autoimmune blistering diseases

This review highlights some of the recent advances and controversies in the treatment of autoimmune blistering diseases, with an emphasis on the practical management of these patients for the clinician. The indications, dosages, and side effects of drugs commonly used to treat these conditions are reviewed. Corticosteroids, administered either topically or systemically, are commonly used in the management of these disorders. Agents that may act as anti-inflammatory agents may offer some benefit, including gold, dapsone, antibiotics, and niacinamide. Immunosuppressants, particularly azathioprine or cyclophosphamide, are used as adjuvants in patients whose condition is not controlled on high-dosage corticosteroids or who cannot tolerate the side effects of steroids.