Environmental factors influencing the biologic behavior of patterns of pemphigus vulgaris: epidemiologic approach.

BACKGROUND

Pemphigus vulgaris is an autoimmune disorder, in which environmental factors seem to play a role, both in the pathogenesis and the activity of the disease. The purpose of the study was to correlate the biologic activity of pemphigus vulgaris with sun exposure and air temperature.

METHODS

An epidemiologic study was carried out, analyzing results of serology, skin involvement, and proportional morbidity rates, related to sun exposure and air temperature. The study was based on retrospective and prospective series of patients. All data were evaluated in a yearly seasonal distribution.

RESULTS

Strong correlations were shown between climatologic data and pemphigus activity in the populations studied.

CONCLUSIONS

Environmental factors have a significant impact on the disease expression. This stresses the necessity of preventive measures against exposure to sun and high temperature.