PEMPHIGUS NEONATORUM Meaning and
Definition
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Pemphigus neonatorum refers to a rare autoimmune blistering disorder that primarily affects newborn infants shortly after birth. It is characterized by the presence of blisters and erosions on the skin and mucous membranes. The condition is thought to occur due to the transfer of maternal antibodies from an affected mother to the fetus during pregnancy.
The blisters in pemphigus neonatorum typically develop within the first few days of life and commonly affect the scalp, face, trunk, and groin areas. These blisters are fragile, and they can break easily, causing the formation of erosions and ulcers. The baby may exhibit signs of discomfort, including pain and irritability.
Pemphigus neonatorum is considered an autoimmune disorder because it arises from the production of autoantibodies against desmosomal proteins – crucial components of cell adhesion – in the infant's skin. The exact cause behind the production of these autoantibodies is not fully understood.
Diagnosis of pemphigus neonatorum involves a clinical examination of the infant's skin and mucous membranes, along with a thorough medical history. Laboratory tests, such as a skin biopsy or immunofluorescence studies, may be performed to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment of pemphigus neonatorum typically involves a multidisciplinary approach and should be guided by a pediatric dermatologist. It usually includes the administration of systemic corticosteroids to suppress the autoimmune response and promote healing. Additional medications, such as immunosuppressive drugs or intravenous immunoglobulins, may be prescribed in more severe cases.
With prompt and appropriate treatment, the prognosis for pemphigus neonatorum is generally favorable. However, close monitoring and long-term follow-up are often necessary to ensure the
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An eruption of bullae with serous or purulent contents, affecting young infants.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for PEMPHIGUS NEONATORUM
- oemphigus neonatorum
- lemphigus neonatorum
- -emphigus neonatorum
- 0emphigus neonatorum
- pwmphigus neonatorum
- psmphigus neonatorum
- pdmphigus neonatorum
- prmphigus neonatorum
- p4mphigus neonatorum
- p3mphigus neonatorum
- penphigus neonatorum
- pekphigus neonatorum
- pejphigus neonatorum
- pemohigus neonatorum
- pemlhigus neonatorum
- pem-higus neonatorum
- pem0higus neonatorum
- pempgigus neonatorum
- pempbigus neonatorum
- pempnigus neonatorum
Etymology of PEMPHIGUS NEONATORUM
The term pemphigus neonatorum has a Greek and Latin origin. Pemphigus comes from the Greek word pemphix, meaning bubble or blister, while neonatorum is a Latin word meaning of the newborn.
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