The Merck Manual Home Edition defines autoimmune disorders as a condition in which the body assumes it is under attack by foreign antigens. The body goes to work to ward off the antigens by producing a response of antibodies--an overgrowth of cells and inflammation.
Scleroderma
The Merck Manual Home Edition posits that systemic scleroderma is rather rare and results in a mixed connective tissue disorder. This disorder is characterized by the scarring of the skin, joints, and organs, which can also lead to chronic inflammatory conditions damaging to the gastrointestinal system, lungs, heart and kidneys. This autoimmune skin condition in particular is treatment-resistant, while the others typically respond well to treatments.
Psoriasis
The National Psoriasis Foundation explains this complex skin disorder as one in which the immune system signals the over-release of growth cells. This abundance of cells can create patches of thick, red raised skin covered with silvery scales. There are several types of psoriasis: guttate, inverse, pustular and erythrodemic. Psoriasis is associated diabetes, heart disease and depression.
Dermatomyositis
Penn State's Milton S. Hershey Medical Center suggests that dermatomyositis is a disorder in which muscle groups known as the inflammatory myopathies are weakened and lead to swelling and rash. The rash itself is triggered by the immune response and accompanying inflammation. It appears scaly or flat in texture with a grayish-red covering of the base of the neck, face, and chest areas, while the eyes exhibit a purple ring of puffiness. The fingers may also develop signs of rash, especially around the joints. When the swelling and inflammation symptoms subside, the rash leaves behind permanent pigment discoloration. This disease eventually progresses to the point of muscle contractures and atrophy. Individuals with this condition are more likely to develop malignant skin cancer. This condition affects mostly women of middle age, yet men and children are also susceptible.
Epidermolysis Bullosa
Epidermolysis bullosa is a skin condition inherited via faulty genes. The National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Disorders suggests that this disease affects approximately 2 to 4 individuals per 100,000. It causes fragile skin that is injured easily, and blisters can form through minor contact and rubbing. These blisters are also found internally in the mouth, stomach, esophagus, intestinal tract, upper airway, bladder and the genitalia.
Bullous Pemphigoid
Bullous pemphigoid is a chronic autoimmune disorder characterized by blistering of the skin, and is most common among the aging population. According to the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology, blisters can appear on the arms, legs, torso and in the mouth, and range from mild irritations of the skin to broken, bleeding ulcers.
References
- Merck Manual Home Edition: Autoimmune Disorders; Jul 2007
- National Psoriasis Foundation: About Psoriasis; 2010
- Penn State Milton S Hershey Medical Center: Dermatomyositis; Oct 2006
- National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Disorders: Epidermolysis Bullosa; Jul 2009
- American Osteopathic College of Dermatology: Bullous Pemphigoid; 2010
