Diagnosis

Blisters occur with a number of more common conditions, so pemphigus, which is rare, can be difficult to diagnose. Your doctor may refer you to a specialist in skin conditions (dermatologist).

Your doctor will talk with you about your medical history and examine your skin and mouth. In addition, you may undergo tests, including:

• A skin biopsy. In this test, a piece of tissue from a blister is removed and examined under a microscope.
• Blood tests. One purpose of these tests is to detect and identify antibodies in your blood that are known to be present with pemphigus.
• An endoscopy. If you have pemphigus vulgaris, your doctor may have you undergo endoscopy to check for sores in the throat. This procedure involves inserting a flexible tube (endoscope) down your throat.