Which Layer Does Pemphigus Vulgaris Affect?

Now, all of the layers of the epidermis are rich in desmoglein 1 and 3, while mucosal cells predominantly have desmoglein 3. So, in individuals with IgG antibodies that bind to both desmoglein 1 and 3, a person develops mucocutaneous pemphigus vulgaris because it affects both the skin and the mucosa.

What layer of skin does pemphigus affect?

Pemphigus affects the outer of the skin (epidermis) and causes lesions and blisters that are easily ruptured. Pemphigoid affects a lower layer of the skin, between the epidermis and the dermis, creating tense blisters that do not break easily. Sometimes pemphigoid may look like hives or eczema without blisters.

What epidermis protein is damaged for pemphigus vulgaris?

Pemphigus is an autoimmune disease caused by antibodies directed against both desmoglein 1 and desmoglein 3 present in desmosomes. Loss of desmosomes results in loss of cohesion between keratinocytes in the epidermis, and a disruption of the barrier function served by intact skin.