Pemphigus Vulgaris in the Oral Cavity:A Diagnostic Challenge for the Dentist

Pemphigus represents a group of auto-immune muco-cutaneous, potentially fatal vesiculo-bullous-ulcerative characterized by intraepithelial acantholysis. Pemphigus vulgaris is the most frequently occurring subtype and is often diagnosed by the oral physician from the oral mucosal ulceration which are often the only manifestation in this disease. The pathogenesis involves, production of immunoglobulin G auto-antibodies against the desmoglein 1 glycoproteins present on the desmosomes. Since this disease can be life threatening if it is progresses, early diagnosis and prompt treatment is a priority. Immunosuppressants remain the mainstay of the therapeutic interventions and many patients recover to lead a normal life.