Introduction

Pemphigus is a dermatological disorder characterized by formation of blisters and sores on the skin surface and mucous membranes usually around the genital areas and the mouth. It is generally seen in people in their 30s and 40s even though it can occur at any age. Pemphigus is a chronic condition and some variants of this disease are potentially serious and require aggressive treatment. Generally, medications are good enough to control the symptoms of Pemphigus.

Causes

Pemphigus is an autoimmune condition. This means that the immune system of the body produces antibodies that attack the skin cells and the mucous membranes mistaking them for foreign invaders. This causes the symptoms as seen with this condition.

Pemphigus is not contagious in any way. Research is still ongoing to identify as to what triggers off the immune system mechanism that causes it to damage the skin cells and the mucous membranes. It has been observed in extremely rare cases where ACE inhibitors have been linked to the development of Pemphigus.

Symptoms

The primary symptom of Pemphigus is the development of skin blisters and lesions on the mucous membranes. These blisters then rupture leaving behind open sores which then ooze pus causing those sores to get infected. There are two common forms of Pemphigus, namely Pemphigus vulgaris and Pemphigus foliaceus. The symptoms of these two variants are different.

While Pemphigus vulgaris causes blisters in the mouth and genital areas which are painful but do not itch, Pemphigus foliaceus causes blisters on the chest, back, and shoulder areas. These blisters are itchy and painful. This type of pemphigus does not cause any blisters in the mouth.

How is Hair Loss Diagnosed?

For a definitive diagnosis of the cause of the Hair Loss, the physician will first take a detailed history of the patient, including personal and family history. Once history taking is done then certain investigative tests will be ordered to come to the bottom of the cause of the Hair Loss. These tests include:
Pull Test: This test involves pulling of a few strands of hair forcefully to check whether any hairs come out of their groove. This gives the physician an idea of whether the quality of hair of the patient is healthy and strong.
Skin Lesion KOH Test: This test involves scraping some samples from the scalp of the patient to observe the hair roots. This gives the physician an idea as to whether there is an infection responsible for Hair Loss.
Blood Test: These are done to identify any underlying medical condition like a thyroid disorder that may be responsible for Hair Loss in the patient.
Microscopy: This is done to observe the hair shaft and see whether there is any abnormality there that may be causing the Hair Loss.

Treatment

The main focus of treatment is to prevent further formation of blisters. The treatment is most effective when it is started early. Thus it is imperative to get a diagnosis done as quickly as possible for the best prognosis. In cases where a medication is responsible for the blisters then stopping that medication and switching to an alternative is the best way to prevent further blister formation and get rid of Pemphigus.

Can Hair Loss be Prevented?

Hair Loss caused due to the normal process of aging cannot be prevented. However, steps can be taken to prevent loss and damage by avoiding chemical use in the hair like hair color and hair dyes. It is also recommended not to use hair dryers for long periods of time as it literally pulls the hair out from their shafts thereby damaging it. This makes the hair weak and brittle.
For healthy hair, it is always best to practice good hair hygiene by shampooing it regularly. Additionally, eating a diet rich in proteins, vitamin B, and iron is also quite effective in preventing hair loss. Keeping the thyroid levels under control and seeking immediate levels if diagnosed with an underactive or overactive thyroid is also recommended to prevent Hair Loss.