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Inherited epidermolysis bullosa
Inherited epidermolysis bullosa (EB) encompasses a number of disorders characterized by recurrent blister formation as the result of structural fragility within the skin and selected other tissues.
ORPHA:79361
Classification level: Group of disorders
- Epidermolysis bullosa hereditaria
- Hereditary epidermolysis bullosa
Prevalence: 1-9 / 1 000 000
Inheritance: Autosomal dominant, Autosomal recessive
Age of onset: All ages
UMLS: C1274224
All types and subtypes of EB are rare; the overall incidence and prevalence of the disease in the United States are approximately 1/53,000 live births and 1/125,000, respectively, and similar estimates have been obtained in some European countries. EB affects individuals from all ethnic origins and there is no gender predilection.
Clinical manifestations range widely, from localized blistering of the hands and feet to generalized blistering of the skin and oral cavity, and injury to many internal organs. Four major types of inherited EB have been defined: EB simplex (EBS), junctional EB (JEB), dystrophic EB (DEB), each with numerous subtypes, and Kindler syndrome. These forms differ not only phenotypically and genotypically but more importantly by the site of ultrastructural disruption or cleavage.
Each EB subtype is known to arise from mutations within the genes coding for several different proteins, each of which is intimately involved in the maintenance of keratinocyte structural stability or adhesion of the keratinocyte to the underlying dermis.
EB is best diagnosed and subclassified by the collective findings obtained via detailed personal and family history, in concert with the results of immunofluorescence antigenic mapping, transmission electron microscopy, and in some cases, by DNA analysis.
Extensive differential diagnosis is not usually required in EB.
Molecular prenatal diagnosis may be available if the disease-causing mutation in the family has been identified.
EB is inherited in either an autosomal dominant or autosomal recessive manner, depending on the EB type and subtype. Genetic counseling should be offered to affected families.
Optimal patient management requires a multidisciplinary approach, and revolves around the protection of susceptible tissues against trauma, use of sophisticated wound care dressings, aggressive nutritional support, and early medical or surgical interventions to correct the extracutaneous complications, whenever possible.
Prognosis varies considerably and is based on both EB subtype and the overall health of the patient.
Last update: June 2011 - Expert reviewer(s): Pr Jo-David FINE
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