| Theme | Gastrointestinal Tract Disease and Skin Manifestation | |
|---|---|---|
| Title | Esophageal Lesions Associated with Pemphigus | |
| Publish Date | 1999/12 | |
| Author | Hiroko Gomi | Third Department of Internal Medicine, Department of Dermatology, Teikyo Universily School of Medicine, Ichihara Hospital |
| [ Summary ] | Esophageal lesions accompaning pemphigus vulgaris or folliaceus have been considered to be rare. However, we have observed esophageal lesions in about 70% of the patients with pemphigus consulted in our department since 1987. This incidence is higher than that reported previously. The esophageal lesions were bullae, erosions, ulcers, and exfoliative esophagitis. The presence of Desmoglein 1 and 3, which are cell adhesion molecules in the stratified squamous epithelium, was found in the lip, oral mucosa and esophagus, as well as the epidermis. This finding suggests that the presence of esophageal lesions in pemphigus is rather common. There are many cases of aphthous esophagitis of unknown cause or atypical esophagitis in which pemphigus should be suspected. Early endoscopic examination of the esophagus and appropriate treatment for pemphigus are necessary. |
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