The use of plasmapheresis and immunosuppression in the treatment of pemphigus vulgaris.

BACKGROUND: Pemphigus vulgaris is an autoimmune blistering disease for which the mainstay of treatment is systemic corticosteroids and immunosuppressants. This therapy had reduced the mortality of pemphigus; however, it is associated with significant morbidity.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to assess the group's experience with plasmapheresis in the treatment of pemphigus vulgaris and report on its utility.

METHODS: Seven patients with severe or resistant pemphigus vulgaris underwent a series of 5 plasma exchanges over an average of 8 days. Immunosuppressive drugs were administered immediately after plasmapheresis to prevent the "rebound" flare of disease that can occur after plasmapheresis.

RESULTS: Remission was induced in 4 patients, partial remission was induced in 2 patients, and 1 patient continues to have active disease.

CONCLUSION: This study suggests that plasmapheresis is a useful intervention in patients with pemphigus vulgaris who are not responding to standard therapy or who require unacceptably high doses of steroids or immunosuppressants.