Symptoms

Epidermolysis bullosa signs and symptoms vary depending on type. They include:

• Fragile skin that blisters easily, especially on the hands and feet
• Nails that are thick or don't form
• Blisters inside the mouth and throat
• Thickened skin on the palms and soles of the feet
• Scalp blistering, scarring and hair loss (scarring alopecia)
• Thin-appearing skin (atrophic scarring)
• Tiny white skin bumps or pimples (milia)
• Dental problems, such as tooth decay from poorly formed enamel
• Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
• Itchy, painful skin

Epidermolysis bullosa blisters may not appear until a toddler first begins to walk or until an older child begins new physical activities that trigger more intense friction on the feet.

When to see a doctor

Contact your doctor if you or your child develops blisters, particularly if you don't know the reason for them. For infants, severe blistering can be life-threatening.

Seek immediate medical care if you or your child:

• Has problems swallowing
• Has problems breathing
• Shows signs of infection, such as warm, red, painful or swollen skin, pus, or a foul odor from a sore, and fever or chills