A rare case of oral pemphigus vulgaris in a teenage patient: Early diagnosis and successful conservative management 

• Author Details:   
• Sadiya Karunakurussi ^*
• Kavya V P
• Bindu R Nayar
• Raseena Beevi Nafeesa

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Pemphigus is a chronic, serious potentially life-threatening autoimmune condition which leads to painful blistering and erosion of the skin and mucous membrane. It occurs when the body produces autoantibodies that target desmosomal glycoproteins on the surface of keratinocytes. The immune response disrupts cell-to-cell adhesion, resulting in intraepithelial clefting and blister formation. In pemphigus vulgaris, 80–90% of individuals experience oral lesions, with oral symptoms being the initial indication in approximately 60% of cases. Clinically, affected individuals often present with painful oral ulcers and dysphagia. Accurate diagnosis relies on a combination of clinical examination, histological evaluation, and immunopathological testing. Early identification and management of these oral signs are vital, as timely treatment may prevent skin complications. Initiating therapy during the oral phase often leads to better disease control and increases the likelihood of early remission. This report discusses a 13 years old female patient who presented with recurrent oral ulcers over the inner side of lip, cheek, tongue and swallowing difficulties since 1 year. She was subsequently diagnosed as pemphigus vulgaris. The condition was detected early and managed effectively with lower dose systemic steroids and nonsurgical periodontal therapy within shorter treatment duration. Dental practitioners should be well-informed about the clinical signs and symptoms of pemphigus vulgaris. Early diagnosis and timely intervention play a critical role in controlling disease progression and improving overall prognosis.