Pemphigus vulgaris

Abstract

Pemphigus vulgaris (PV) is an autoimmune mucocutaneous blistering disorder for which early recognition and treatment are necessary to achieve a favourable prognosis. A multidisciplinary, patient-centred approach is required to optimize therapeutic outcomes. Systemic corticosteroids remain first-line treatment for PV patients, yet their optimal dosing regimen remains unknown. Further, various steroid-sparing adjuvants play an important role in the treatment of PV. As clinical trials in the field are limited by small sample sizes and a lack of standardized outcome measures, a therapeutic algorithm is presented to guide the management of PV patients.