Epidermolysis bullosa (EB) is a group of genetic skin diseases that cause the skin to become fragile and to blister very easily. Blisters form in response to minor injuries or friction, such as rubbing or scratching or from heat or adhesive tape. In severe cases, the blisters may occur inside the body, such as the lining of the mouth or the stomach.m Most types of epidermolysis bullosa are inherited. The condition usually shows up in infancy or early childhood. There are four main types of epidermolysis bullosa:

It is difficult to Identify the exact type because there are many subtypes of EB. Within each type or subtype, a person may be mildly or severely affected. The disease can range from being a minor inconvenience to completely disabling, and fatal in some cases. Most types of EB are inherited. The inheritance pattern may be autosomal dominant or autosomal recessive. Management involves protecting the skin, reducing friction against the skin, and keeping the skin cool. nherited epidermolysis bullosa (EB) may follow either an autosomal dominant or autosomal recessiveinheritance pattern, depending on the type and subtype of inherited EB in the affected person.

Epidermolysis bullosa simplex (the most common type of EB) is mainly autosomal dominant, except for a few rare autosomal recessive subtypes.

Kindler syndrome is only inherited in an autosomal recessive manner.

Dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (DEB) can be inherited in an autosomal dominant or autosomal recessive manner, depending on the subtype present. However, dominant DEB is the second most common major type of EB.

Junctional epidermolysis bullosa is autosomal recessive, although one article stated that an autosomal dominant form has recently been reported.

 

Contact the Genetic and Rare Diseases (GARD) Information Center for more information on Epidermolysis Bullosa.