Bullous pemphigoid (BP) is the most common autoimmune blistering disorder in the elderly but is rare in children. Pediatric BP often presents with dramatic features, including eczematous plaques and tense bullae, accompanied by intense pruritus and occasional mucosal involvement. Despite its rarity, BP should be considered in differential diagnoses due to its varied presentations.

An 18-year-old Filipino male presented with intermittent fever followed by multiple erythematous pruritic plaques on his extremities, which later spread to the head and trunk. Generalized tense vesicles and bullae developed on top of existing plaques, accompanied by severe pruritus. Nikolsky and Asboe-Hansen signs were negative. Lesions eventually covered the entire body, including the oral mucosa. Self-medication with herbal concoctions worsened the condition, causing erosion and plaque thickening. Lab tests showed leukocytosis with eosinophilia and extremely elevated serum IgE level. Histopathology revealed subepidermal split with eosinophils, and direct immunofluorescence confirmed BP with 1+ IgG and 2+C3 deposits in the basement membrane zone. Anti-BP180 ELISA was positive. The patient was treated with intravenous hydrocortisone, then transitioned to oral prednisone (40 mg daily, tapered), leading to complete resolution of lesions with no recurrence.

Pediatric bullous pemphigoid, rare in late childhood, mirrors adult cases but with more acral distribution and mucosal involvement. Elevated IgE levels may correlate with disease activity, prompting further study of risk factors and triggers. A collaborative approach is crucial for managing physical and social challenges, improving quality of life.

Human ; Male ; Adolescent: 13-18 Yrs Old ; Adolescent ; Pemphigoid, Bullous