Types of blisters
Blisters are closely associated with a particular form of the autoimmune disease called Pemphigus. It occurs primarily due to the separation of skin cells and accumulation of fluids in between skin layers that lead to the formation of blisters. The different types of Pemphigus are described below-
- Pemphigus Vulgaris: They are mainly manifested as painful mouth blisters. They do not leave scars after healing.
- Pemphigus Foliaceus: They are manifested as blisters on the face and scalp. As the diseases gradually progress, blisters appear on the trunk as well (chest and back). Loosened moist scales may be formed on the affected skin which may cause irritation and itching.
- Pemphigus Vegetans: In this case, thick sores and blisters are formed in the underarms (axilla) and groin.
- IgA Pemphigus: It is triggered by the IgA antibody and is relatively benign in nature. Fluid-filled lumps are formed in this case.
- Paraneoplastic Pemphigus: It is a rare variety of blister and is usually observed in cancer patients. It is characterized by blisters and sores on the mouth and lip. Scars are found on the linings of eye-lids.
Another classification of blisters is provided below-
- Friction blisters: They are formed due to shear forces that severely damage the connective tissues present between epidermis and dermis. “Hot spots” or “pressure spots” are created. Blister formation occurs in the later stage due to leakage of plasma between the damaged skin layers.
- Blood blisters: Blood blisters may form underneath the skin or below the nail-bed. These are formed due to damage of blood vessels and subdermal tissues, which cause blood and lymph to get trapped beneath the skin.