Treatment for Epidermolysis Bullosa
The primary goal of treatment in a case of epidermolysis bullosa is prevention of formation of blisters and related complications. Maximum care has to be taken to avoid
Treatment of EB includes the following:
- Skin care in EB is of utmost importance. Blistered areas that become crusted or exposed are susceptible to infections. Always consult a doctor, since he may prescribe antibiotic ointments, bandaging, or dressing if required.
- Swallowing difficulties may require short-term use of steroids. Long-term use is generally not recommended for EB. An infection called candidiasis can occur in the mouth or food pipe requiring antifungal drugs.
- Maintain good dental hygiene.
- Nutrition: Excessive skin damage demands extra calories and protein for recovery. Persons with blisters in the mouth or food pipe may have difficulty eating hard foods like nuts or chips. They should stick on to soft food items.
- Physiotherapy helps to minimize the evolution of contractures, and allows better range of motion.
- Oral steroids and medications may suppress the immune system, placing the patient at increased risk of infections, and thus should be avoided.
- Skin grafting is often necessary to replace denuded or ulcerated skin.
Advertisement
Complications of EB may require
- Dilation of the food pipe if there are strictures
- Repair of hand deformities
Evolving strategies in the treatment of EB include:
- Protein and gene therapies
- Transplantation of bone marrow
- Researches focusing on altering the structural composition of the skin
- Interferon therapy to fight weakened immunity
