Pemphigus Vulgaris

This variety is characterized by an eruption of bullae of varying size, some of which may be aslarge as a pigeon's egg. They may exist singly or in considerable number, and successive outbreaks may prolong the affection for an indefinite period.

In pemphigus vulgaris the bullae are well distended with a thin, not very plastic fluid, and usually remain intact for several days. Sometimes the fluid is resorbed, and the uplifted epidermis applies itself to the skin, without, however, becoming permanently attached, but exfoliates as soon as a new stratum corneum has formed beneath it.

More frequently, however, the bulla ruptures and becomes detached, leaving a raw and reddened surface, giving rise to a slight serous discharge. This gradually lessens, however, until a newly-formed, horny layer replaces the old.

Solitary bullae may succeed each other at more or less regular intervals, or there may be crops of smaller bullae, appearing weeks or months apart.

The disease may persist unchecked for several years, terminating in spontaneous recovery, or quite frequently ending fatally.