skin disorders
Mucous Membrane Pemphigoid
Introduction
Mucous membrane pemphigoid is an autoimmune disorder that causes blisters to form in the mucous membranes of the body. The mucous membranes most often affected are the mouth and eyes. Mucous membrane pemphigoid occurs when the immune system attacks the mucus membranes and causes blisters and sores. People have blistering in the mouth and on other areas of the body. Doctors diagnose mucous membrane pemphigoid by examining tissue samples under a microscope. Treatment usually involves corticosteroids or drugs that suppress the immune system. (See also Overview of Blistering Disorders .) The mucous membranes are the moist surfaces of the body. Mucous membrane pemphigoid typically affects the mouth (oral mucous membrane pemphigoid) and the eyes ( Ocular Mucous Membrane Pemphigoid ), but other mucous membranes (such as the inside the throat and the genitals) and the skin also may be affected. Older people are most often affected, women more than men. 