UVB-induced acantholysis in endemic Pemphigus foliaceus (Fogo selvagem) and Pemphigus vulgaris.

Abstract

BACKGROUND:

The autoantibody-mediated disease in fogo selvagem (FS) is aggravated by sunlight exposure.

OBJECTIVE:

The aim of this study was to test whether UVB exposure of uninvolved skin of patients with FS (n = 21) enhances epidermal acantholysis and in vivo binding of FS autoantibodies as compared with a control group (n = 4). Another control group included 8 patients with pemphigus vulgaris (PV).

RESULTS:

Exposure of uninvolved skin of FS to UVB induces acantholysis (15/21 patients) with in vivo binding of IgG and C3 to the epidermal intercellular spaces (17/21 patients). Similar results were found in PV (6/8 patients). The test was negative in the control group.

CONCLUSION:

Sunlight exposure is harmful in the clinical course of patients with FS and those with PV. Protection from sunlight should be part of the treatment of these patients.

• Authors: V M Reis, R P Toledo, A Lopez, L A Diaz, J E Martins
• Journal: Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology (J Am Acad Dermatol) Vol. 42 Issue 4 Pg. 571-6 (Apr 2000) ISSN: 0190-9622 [Print] United States
• PMID: 10727300 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S., Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.)

Chemical References

• Autoantibodies

Topics

• Acantholysis (etiology)
• Adult
• Aged
• Autoantibodies (metabolism)
• Case-Control Studies
• Female
• Humans
• Male
• Middle Aged
• Pemphigus (immunology, pathology)
• Skin (immunology, pathology)
• Sunlight (adverse effects)
• Ultraviolet Rays (adverse effects)