Acantholytic epidermolysis bullosa.

BACKGROUND

We describe a new variant of inherited epidermolysis bullosa and elucidate the clinical, histologic, and ultrastructural features of this condition.

OBSERVATIONS

This form of epidermolysis bullosa displays an autosomal dominant inheritance pattern, is characterized by acral bullae, and histologically demonstrates suprabasal clefting with acantholysis. Ultrastructural findings are nonspecific but reminiscent of those observed in benign familial pemphigus.

CONCLUSION

Acantholytic epidermolysis bullosa is a rare but distinct clinicopathologic entity that warrants inclusion in the nosologic classification of epidermolysis bullosa.