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Pustules don’t always indicate infection, as sterile pustules may arise in various inflammatory skin disorders. The disorders discussed in this quiz may present as pustular eruptions.
For each of the fifteen cases, study the image(s) and then answer the questions. You can click on the image to view a larger version if required.
Each case should take approximately 2 minutes to complete. There is a list of suggested further reading material at the end of the quiz.
What is this condition?
Pemphigus foliaceus
What features distinguish it from other pustular conditions?
Pemphigus foliaceous is an immunobullous disease in which immunoglobulin is deposited between keratinocytes as an autoimmune reaction to protein components of desmosomes (adhesion plates between the cells). Early lesions are fragile vesicles that evolve into widespread erosions and crusting. Sometimes, characteristic half-and-half pustules may be observed, as in this case. Pemphigus foliaceus is less serious than pemphigus vulgaris, and is treated with topical and systemic steroids or dapsone.