Immunobullous diseases with ocular involvement.

Collaborative efforts of the dermatologist and ophthalmologist and other physicians with interest and experience in the management of the autoimmune bullous diseases optimize patient care by avoiding potentially harmful delay in diagnosis or implementation of therapy. At our institution, ophthalmologic and dermatologic follow-up visits for patients with bullous disorders involving the eyes are arranged for the same day so that ophthalmic examination and monitoring and adjustment of medication by the dermatologist can be effected. During initiation of treatment, visits are monthly. Later, when patients are stabilized, intervals may be extended to 3 to 6 months. More frequent visits are arranged as needed with the ophthalmologist to manage infectious complications or problems requiring surgical management and with the dermatologist to manage extraocular disease and adverse reactions to medication and to triage concurrent illnesses.