Etymed
pemphigoid
Definition
A chronic autoimmune skin condition characterized by blistering of the skin and mucous membranes
Clinical context
A 75-year-old woman presents with painful, tense blisters on her arms and legs that have been recurring for several months. Physical examination reveals fragile bullae with minimal surrounding erythema. Skin biopsy shows subepidermal blistering with IgG and C3 deposits along the basement membrane. She has no history of autoimmune diseases but has been taking hydrochlorothiazide for hypertension.
Mnemonic
Pemphigoid = 'Painful' blisters with 'Pemphigus' (bullae) and 'Piggyback' (autoimmune) - remember 'Painful' and 'Piggyback' for this chronic blistering condition