Viral pemphigus is a disease caused by the Coxsackie virus. The disease is characterized by a rash in the form of blisters (often quite large in excess of 1 cm in diameter) with clear or bloody contents on the soles, palms, fingers and mucous membrane of the mouth, throat.
The risk group includes, in the first place, children of early and younger preschool age. In adults, viral pemphigus most often occurs between the ages of 40 and 60, sometimes the disease is more severe than in children. According to medical statistics, the incidence rate increases in the summer. The causes of viral pemphigus are not reliably established, because of this therapy is not always effective.
Symptoms of viral pemphigus
As already noted, with a disease on the skin and mucous membranes, characteristic translucent papules appear, in addition, the following manifestations are observed:
- painful sensations in the area of the rash;
- fever, weakness, hyperthermia;
- stool disorder;
- ulceration after rupture of blisters, and later - brown pigmentation in their place.
With viral pemphigus of the oral cavity, there is persistent pain in the throat, and as a result - a decrease in appetite.
In the case of progression of the viral pemphigus of the extremities, the pathological process can spread throughout the entire surface of the body, mainly in the armpits, in the groin, on the genitals and buttocks. It is possible to establish the diagnosis correctly by the infectious disease doctor. With the purpose of specification of the expert's conclusion laboratory tests are appointed:
- a blood test for the presence of specific antibodies;
- virological examination of feces, discharge from ulcers and throat;
- cytology scrapings of vesicles.
Treatment of viral pemphigus
Self-medication in case of pemphigus disease is unacceptable! The fact is that as the disease develops, the disease can disrupt the functions of internal organs (heart, kidneys, liver) and lead to such serious complications as myocarditis, meningitis, myelitis with paralysis. In pregnancy, spontaneous abortion is possible. In the most severe cases, viral pemphigus leads to death.
Treatment of viral pemphigus in adults is based on the use of hormones. And hormonal preparations are prescribed for internal and external use. As the patient's condition stabilizes, the dose of drugs decreases, in order to prevent serious consequences that involve the use of hormones.
Good results are given in combination with hormones of immunosuppressive and cytostatic agents (Sandimmun, Methotrexate, Azathioprine).
In the treatment of the disease, such methods as hemosorption and plasmapheresis aimed at purifying blood, and photochemotherapy, which helps to get rid of toxic substances, are also involved.
To reduce painful sensations and accelerate the course of regenerative processes, antiseptic solutions are suggested for rinsing the mouth and lubricating the skin (Lidocaine, Diclonin), vitamin-oil solutions.
With viral pemphigus of the oral cavity and throat, foods that irritate the mucous membrane (acute and acidic) should be excluded from the diet.
It is great if after the conducted course of therapy, sanatorium-and-spa treatment will be prescribed to restore the vital balance.
It should be remembered that the contagiousness of the viral pemphigus is extremely high, so when caring for the patient should carefully observe the sanitary and hygienic rules. For the prevention of it is necessary to take drugs with calcium and potassium.