[Pemphigus vulgaris and benign cicatricial mucous membrane pemphigoid in the upper respiratory tract and esophagus].

Pemphigus vulgaris and benign cicatricial membrane pemphigoid are both autoimmune, blistering, dermatologic diseases characterised clinically by tense bullae on skin or on mucous membranes. Both diseases are rare, but very serious, associated with a high death rate (pemphigus) or high morbidity with cicatricial mucosal lesions (pemphigoid) if untreated. These diseases are discussed and two case stories mentioned where the primary focus was in the upper aerodigestive tract, which is very seldom. The otolaryngologist can make an important contribution to the early recognition, diagnosis, and management of these diseases. The biopsy must undergo immunofluorescence examination.