Epidermolysis Bullosa Simplex in a 13-year-old Filipina

ABSTRACT

Introduction@#Epidermolysis Bullosa (EB) is a rare genodermatosis characterized by fragility of the skin and mucous membranes, manifested by blistering with little or no trauma. There are three subtypes EB Simplex, Junctional EB, and Dystrophic EB. Each type of EB has its own specific genetic defect. We report a case of a 13-year-old girl who presented with multiple tense blisters and eroded plaques since birth on the entire body.@*Case summary@#This is a 13-year-old-girl who presented with solitary tense blister on her right thigh three days after birth, which gradually affected the scalp, trunk, and upper and lower extremities, particularly on the trauma prone areas. There was nail dystrophy and multiple brownish dental pits at three years of age. A 4 mm lesional skin punch biopsy showed subepidermal blisters containing fibrin, lymphocytes and few red blood cells. PAS showed basement membrane zone beneath the blister, compatible with EB. Immunofluorescence mapping showed decreased immunofluorescence (+1) on keratin 5/6, (+2) on keratin 14, and absence of immunofluorescence on alpha 6 / beta 4 integrins. Final diagnosis is EB Simplex.@*Conclusion@#Early detection is important in managing this case, to detect systemic involvement and provide palliative care. Genetic counseling is recommended for prospective parents who have a family history of any form of epidermolysis bullosa. The prognosis of Inherited EB is very variable and the mortality is usually due to complications of systemic involvement. A multidisciplinary approach in the supportive management of this case is necessary as there is still no cure for this condition.