Medical Dermatology
(Chronic & Inflammatory Skin Diseases)
Skin Cancer & Pre-Cancer Care
Medical Dermatology
(Chronic & Inflammatory Skin Diseases)
- Acne & Acne Scarring
- Rosacea
- Psoriasis (includes Excimer laser, Narrow band UVB phototherapy)
- Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)
- Seborrheic Dermatitis
- Contact Dermatitis
- Hives (Urticaria)
- Vitiligo (includes Excimer laser, Narrow band UVB phototherapy)
- Hair Loss (Alopecia)
- Pruritus (Chronic Itching)
- Autoimmune Skin Disorders
- Warts, Molluscum, Fungal
- Sarcoidosis (Skin Involvement)
- Hyperhidrosis (Excessive Sweating)
- Lichen planus
Blistering Skin Disorders
- Bacterial Skin Infections
- Keloids (Overgrown scar)
- Paraneoplastic Dermatoses (a clue to an internal cancer)
- Skin Issues Related to STDs (STIs)
- Scabies
Pigment & Lesion Disorders
Non-Cancer Growth
Surgical Dermatology (Non-Cancer Procedures)
Cosmetic Dermatology
• Blistering Skin Disorders
Evaluation and treatment of autoimmune and inflammatory blistering conditions
What Are Blistering Skin Disorders?
Blistering skin disorders are conditions that cause fluid-filled blisters (bullae or vesicles) to form on the skin or mucous membranes. These disorders may be:
Autoimmune (immune system attacks skin structures)
Inflammatory
Medication-related
Infection-related
Genetic (rare cases)
Some blistering disorders are mild and temporary. Others require specialized medical treatment and close monitoring.
Common Blistering Skin Conditions
Bullous Pemphigoid
Most common autoimmune blistering disorder
Usually affects older adults
Causes large, tense blisters
Often itchy before blisters form
Pemphigus Vulgaris
Less common but more serious
Fragile blisters that may rupture easily
Often involves the mouth
Dermatitis Herpetiformis
Intensely itchy small blisters
Associated with gluten sensitivity (celiac disease)
Other Causes
Severe eczema
Drug reactions
Viral infections
Contact reactions
Our dermatologist will determine the exact diagnosis.
Symptoms to Watch For
Large or small fluid-filled blisters
Skin pain or burning
Itching
Mouth sores or painful swallowing
Skin peeling
Fever (in severe cases)
If you develop widespread blistering, seek prompt medical attention.
How Are Blistering Skin Disorders Diagnosed?
Diagnosis often involves:
Careful skin examination
Skin biopsy (often two samples: routine and special immunofluorescence testing)
Blood tests (in autoimmune cases)
Because autoimmune blistering diseases can mimic other conditions, accurate diagnosis is essential.
How Are Blistering Skin Disorders Treated?
Treatment depends on severity and underlying cause.
Common treatments include:
Topical corticosteroids
Oral corticosteroids
Immunosuppressive medications
Biologic therapies (in selected cases)
Antibiotics (if secondary infection develops)
Gluten-free diet (for dermatitis herpetiformis)
Treatment is often tailored and may require ongoing monitoring.
Is This a Serious Condition?
Some blistering disorders are mild. Others, particularly autoimmune types, can be serious and require prompt treatment.
Early diagnosis improves outcomes and helps prevent complications.
Pre-Op Instructions (If Biopsy Is Needed)
If a skin biopsy is required:
Continue medications unless instructed otherwise
Inform us if you take blood thinners
Arrive with clean skin
Avoid applying creams or ointments to the biopsy area unless directed
Two biopsies are often taken to confirm autoimmune blistering disease.
Post-Op Instructions (After Biopsy or Treatment)
After Biopsy:
Keep the area clean and dry
Apply ointment as directed
Cover with a bandage if needed
Avoid picking at scabs
If Treated for Blistering:
Take medications exactly as prescribed
Do not abruptly stop oral steroids unless instructed
Watch for signs of infection (increasing redness, warmth, pus, fever)
Protect fragile skin from trauma
Call the office if:
Blistering spreads rapidly
You develop fever or worsening pain
You have difficulty eating or swallowing