[D-penicillamine-induced pemphigus].

The authors describe a new original observation of a D-penicillamine-induced pemphigus in a patient with rheumatoid polyarthritis. It begins in two steps: the first crisis of blisters having subsided after withdrawal of D-penicillamine, there is a recurrence 7 months later. Clinical and histopathological aspects of pemphigus vulgaris are discussed. Existence of intercellular antisubstance antibody in the serum and in the skin. Evolution identical to that of a classical pemphigus requiring an important corticotherapy. Review of the literature on the previous cases of D-penicillamine-induced pemphigus and other pemphigus attributed to the action of other drugs, namely pyritinol, rifampicine and practolol. Discussion of the pathogenesis.