Pemphigus Vulgaris Involving the Esophagus

Characteristic suprabasal intraepithelial bullae with typical acantholytic cells were present in a biopsy specimen from an erosive lesion of the cervical esophagus. The patient's serum was positive for pemphigus intercellular antibodies. Contrary to present concepts, pemphigus vulgaris may extend to the esophagus. Although pemphigus of the esophagus is unusual, it should be considered and investigated in patients with pemphigus who have symptoms suggestive of esophageal involvement.