Your skin is a part of your immune system, which is meant to protect your body from foreign invaders that cause disease. Unfortunately, there are times when the immune system fails and begins attacking healthy tissue, including the skin. These are called autoimmune diseases, which come in many forms and types that can attack the skin. At MJR Dermatology in Lawrenceville, GA, we provide diagnosis for skin conditions caused by autoimmune disorders and autoimmune disease treatments.
Autoimmune diseases are typically not curable, and the cause is not always known. The body perceives healthy tissue as a foreign invader and begins to destroy it. This can cause wide spread inflammation, often within the joints. Rheumatoid arthritis and MS are examples of chronic autoimmune diseases that can attack various tissues throughout the body, causing pain and disability. Some autoimmune diseases specifically affect the skin and require the treatment of an experienced dermatologist.
Types of Skin Autoimmune Diseases
The skin is a complex organ that contains multiple layers of proteins, fat and other substances that are designed to protect the body. When an autoimmune disease evolves that attacks the skin, it usually impacts the dermis and epidermis, the top two layers. Blisters can form as skin cells are destroyed that connect the two layers. Plaques can also form, where skin piles up and causes itchy, painful patches. Some of the most common types of skin autoimmune diseases include:
- Psoriasis
- Epidermolysis bullosa acquisita (EBA)
- Dermatomyositis
- Lupus
- Scleroderma
Autoimmune diseases that affect the skin may be localized or systemic. These conditions are typically chronic and can require life-long treatment and management. Patients with skin autoimmune diseases tend to have blisters, plaques, itching, dry/cracked skin, inflammation, red/scaly patches and other symptoms.
Dr. Matthew Reschly is a board certified dermatologist with decades of experience performing skin disease treatments. With autoimmune disease, Dr. Reschly works with each patient and their medical team to devise a personalized treatment plan for relief. If you have symptoms of a skin autoimmune disease and want to explore your treatment options, come see us at MJR Dermatology. Call our clinic in Lawrenceville, GA, to schedule your appointment.