Autoimmune Skin Disorders

The function of the immune system is to protect the body against foreign cells, such as bacteria, viruses and fungal infections. However, in certain instances, the immune system will attack healthy tissues, leading to autoimmune skin disorders.

It is common for autoimmune disorders to be diagnosed through the skin, as this is one of the first places to show symptoms. Some common signs to look out for include the following:

• Scaly patches
• Rashes
• Blisters
• Itchy, dry skin
• Lesions

Types of autoimmune skin disorders

There are several types of autoimmune skin disorders that Dr Maphosa diagnoses and treats. He will first assess your medical history and do a skin assessment to determine the type of disorder and best treatment.

Examples of autoimmune skin disorders include:

• Dermatomyositis - this is mainly related to the muscles, but it can cause significant rashes and tightened skin.
• Alopecia - a hair disorder that causes large patches of missing hair. 
• Cutaneous lupus - this is lupus of the skin, where the body attacks skin cells and causes inflamed and painful skin. 
• Psoriasis - causes itchy and painful skin plaques or rashes due to rapid skin cell turnover.
• Behcet's Disease - blood vessel inflammation leads to skin lesions, rashes, mouth sores and inflammation.
• Scleroderma - causes thick, hardened patches to develop on the skin.
• Pemphigus - causes pus-filled blisters on the skin that are painful and itchy.

How are autoimmune skin disorders treated?

Unfortunately, there is no cure for autoimmune disorders. The goal of treatment is to ensure the condition does not worsen and that symptoms can be managed effectively. This may involve various oral and topical medications, curated skincare, lifestyle habits, and more extensive procedures.