Abstract

Background: Although pemphigus is a well-characterized entity, detailed epidemiologic studies from the Arabian Peninsula are not available. The purpose of this study was to elucidate the clinical features, course, and prognosis of pemphigus patients followed at a national dermatology center in Kuwait.

Methods: Fifty-four patients with pemphigus in this report were treated between 1981 and 1996, and were studied for several clinical features, treatment, course and prognosis.

Results: Around 80% of pemphigus patients were Arabs, and Kuwaitis constituted the largest number (46.3%) with a female predominance (F: M = 2:1). Pemphigus vulgaris (PV) was the commonest clinical type. The mean age of onset was 36 years. The follow-up period ranged from 2 months to 12 years (mean, 4.5 years). The majority of the patients could be managed with low-dose steroids (30-60 mg/day). Twenty per cent of the patients were in complete clinical remission and were off systemic therapy for an average of 3 years. No death secondary to the disease or its treatment was observed.

Conclusions: Kuwaiti patients with pemphigus were observed to have a relatively young age of onset and a female predominance. Low doses of steroids were enough to control the disease in the majority, and at least 20% of patients were off therapy and in complete remission on follow-up.