The mnemonic
Pemphigus is Desmosome, Pemphigoid is Basement
What each word stands for
- PemphigusDesmogleins in desmosomes, intraepidermal split
- PemphigoidBP180 and BP230 at the basement membrane, subepidermal split
Why it matters clinically
Predicts blister fragility, Nikolsky sign and immunofluorescence pattern.
Where it stops being reliable
Omits dermatitis herpetiformis and acquired epidermolysis bullosa.
Teaching aid, still awaiting independent review. Confirm facts in a standard source.