Pemphigus vs. Pemphigoid — What's the Difference?

Pemphigus ( or ) is a rare group of blistering autoimmune diseases that affect the skin and mucous membranes. The name is derived from the Greek root pemphix, meaning "pustule".In pemphigus, autoantibodies form against desmoglein, which forms the "glue" that attaches adjacent epidermal cells via attachment points called desmosomes.

Pemphigoid is a group of rare autoimmune blistering diseases of the skin, and mucous membranes. As its name indicates, pemphigoid is similar in general appearance to pemphigus, but, unlike pemphigus, pemphigoid does not feature acantholysis, a loss of connections between skin cells.Pemphigoid is more common than pemphigus, and is slightly more common in women than in men.

Any of several acute or chronic skin diseases characterized by groups of itching blisters.

(pathology) Any of a group of rare autoimmune blistering skin diseases that superficially resemble pemphigus.

(pathology) A severe autoimmune skin disease characterized by pustules and painful blisters, and which can be fatal.

A somewhat rare skin disease, characterized by the development of blebs upon different parts of the body.

A skin disease characterized by large thin-walled blisters (bullae) arising from normal skin or mucous membrane