Contributing exogenous factors in pemphigus

Pemphigus Variant Associated With Penicillin Use

“…We examined all purchases of medications that were previously associated with pemphigus 15,16,19,20 during the 6 months before the date that the pemphigus was first diagnosed. These medications included penicillins, cephalosporins, angiotensinconverting enzyme inhibitors, dipyrone, phenobarbiturate, topical anti-inflammatory drugs, and nonsteroidal antiinflammatory medications.…”

A Case of Phenol-Related Contact Pemphigus

“…A new subgroup of induced pemphigus has recently been proposed by Brenner et al [3], termed 'contact pemphigus'. While a number of reports have discussed the role of phenols in the exacerbation and induction of pemphigus [4][5][6], we report the first case of phenol-related contact pemphigus. This case strengthens the view that some 'idiopathic pemphigus' cases might actually be misdiagnosed cases induced by exogenous factors.…”

“…It is readily absorbed through the skin. There was a striking correlation between the disease course and serum levels of PCP in these cases [15].Tur and Brenner [4] suggested that pemphigus may be induced by contact with plants containing urushiol (3-pentadecylcatechol) and other chemically similar long-chain phenols. They also speculated on the possible role of tannins -naturally occurring plant polyphenolic compounds -in the induction or promotion of pemphigus.…”

“…As a result, new bullae appeared in the mouth. Based on our previous findings of pemphigus induced by phenol-containing agents [4][5][6], we advised the patient to stop using the product. She was discharged a few days later on steroid therapy, 80 mg/day prednisone, which was tapered as the disease subsided.…”

Precautions and Suggestions for Pemphigus Patients

“…Lately a series of epidemiological data (eating habits shared by the pemphigus-prone populations of Amazonian Brazil and India) [64, 65, 66], clinical findings (case reports of diet-related pemphigus) [67, 68]and experimental data (in vitro acantholysis by common diet components, such as allyl compounds and tannins) [69, 70]has indicated a possible link between diet factors and pemphigus [71]. Spices, foods and beverages suspected of being pemphigus inducers are those which contain thiol allyl compounds (e.g.…”