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Beyond the Skin: Pemphigus Vulgaris Presenting with Hematemesis
Srinu Deshidi
1
, Vinod Hanumanthu
2
, Swathi Birlangi
3
1
Department of Gastroenterology, Jagruth Superspeciality Hospital, Khammam, India; Departments of
2
Dermatology and
3
Pathology, NRI Institute of Medical Sciences, Visakhapatnam, India.
Corresponding Author:
Dr Srinu Deshidi
Email: srinu.deshidi@gmail.com
Received:
13-JUN-2025
Accepted:
02-OCT-2025
Published Online:
05-DEC-2025
DOI:
http://dx.doi.org/10.17659/01.2025.0024
Abstract
Background
: Acute upper gastrointestinal bleeding is a potentially life-threatening medical emergency with various etiologies, including peptic ulcer disease and portal hypertension. Pemphigus vulgaris (PV), a rare autoimmune blistering disorder, seldom presents with gastrointestinal involvement and is an extremely uncommon cause of upper gastrointestinal bleed.
Case Report
: We report the case of a 35-year-old male with no prior co-morbidities who initially presented with vesiculobullous skin lesions and multiple episodes of hematemesis. Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy revealed diffuse friable, hemorrhagic mucosa with ulcerations in the duodenum. A dermatological evaluation and skin biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of pemphigus vulgaris and was managed with intravenous proton pump inhibitors, fluid resuscitation, and high-dose pulse steroids, resulting in clinical stabilization and endoscopic mucosal healing. Immunosuppressive therapy was continued with oral steroids and azathioprine, with good response.
Conclusion
: This case highlights an unusual presentation of pemphigus vulgaris manifesting as upper gastrointestinal bleeding due to duodenal involvement. It emphasizes the need to consider autoimmune blistering disorders in the differential diagnosis of unexplained upper GI bleeding, especially in the presence of cutaneous lesions.
Keywords :
Autoimmune Diseases, Duodenitis, Endoscopy, Digestive System, Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage, Immunosuppressive Agents, Pemphigus.
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Last updated on Jan 20, 2026