Classic findings, mimickers, and distinguishing features in primary blistering skin disease

Abstract

Context.—Blistering diseases comprise a large group of clinically polymorphic and sometimes devastating diseases. During the past few decades, we have developed an elegant understanding of the broad variety of blistering diseases and the specific histopathologic mechanism of each. Objective.—To review examples of the classic findings of specific blistering diseases and emphasize the importance of considering unrelated conditions that can mimic the classic finding. Data Sources.—This article combines data from expert review, the medical literature, and dermatology and pathology texts. Conclusions.—We have chosen several common examples of classic blistering diseases that are mimicked by other cutaneous conditions to highlight the basic findings in blistering conditions and the importance of clinician-to-pathologist communication.