What is the main treatment for bullous pemphigoid?

The main treatment for bullous pemphigoid typically involves the use of systemic corticosteroids. Bullous pemphigoid is an autoimmune blistering disorder characterized by the presence of antibodies against components of the basement membrane in the skin. Systemic corticosteroids are highly effective in suppressing the immune response and reducing inflammation, leading to improved skin healing and resolution of blistering.

In cases where the disease is extensive or severe, systemic corticosteroids can achieve better control of symptoms compared to topical treatments. They help to reduce the production of autoantibodies and mitigate the inflammatory response associated with the disease. In some instances, systemic corticosteroids may be combined with other immunosuppressive agents or steroid-sparing medications to manage the condition effectively and minimize potential side effects of long-term steroid use.

Other treatment options like topical steroids, while useful for localized mild cases, generally do not provide the same level of systemic control as systemic corticosteroids. Fluconazole is an antifungal medication used to treat fungal infections and is not relevant for an autoimmune condition like bullous pemphigoid. Antibiotics may be used in cases of secondary infections due to skin blistering but do not address the underlying autoimmune etiology of the disease.