Pemphigus: update for the general practitioner.

Pemphigus is a dermatologic disease that can affect both the skin and mucous membranes. Pemphigus affects the oral cavity; the most common form of the disease that is observed clinically is pemphigus vulgaris. Oral lesions may precede skin lesions; therefore, it is imperative that clinicians are aware of the clinical signs and symptoms of this disorder. This article will review the etiology, symptomatology, diagnostic tools, and treatments available to diagnose and manage this disease.