Document Type
Article
Publication Title
Cureus
Abstract
Bullous pemphigoid (BP) is an autoimmune disease characterized by pruritic blisters and plaques, primarily affecting elderly individuals. The etiology of BP is multifactorial, with several documented triggers, the extent of which is currently unknown. This case reviews currently documented BP triggers and presents a case of severe and refractory BP, whose onset and progression raise suspicion for indoor pollutants and viral infection as inciting triggers. Our patient's condition worsened despite standard therapy, highlighting the complexity of BP management. This case adds to the literature, teasing out BP pathogenesis and highlighting the complicated hospital treatment course for severe autoimmune blistering diseases.
DOI
10.7759/cureus.83266
Publication Date
4-30-2025
Keywords
autoimmune disease, bullous pemphigoid, dermatology, environmental exposures, rheumatology, viral associations
ISSN
2168-8184
Recommended Citation
Lawlor A, Alef R, Deeb K. Exploring Environmental Triggers and Viral Associations in a Case of Severe Bullous Pemphigoid. Cureus. 2025; 17(4). doi: 10.7759/cureus.83266.
