Acute myocardial infarction in middle-aged male Nigerian with <i>Pemphigus vulgaris</i> on long term corticosteroid therapy: a case report

Abstract

We report the case of an acute myocardial infarction in a 64-year-old man with background pemphigus vulgaris and long term dapsone and oral corticosteroid therapy. Pemphigus is an uncommon autoimmune blistering disease, mediated by antibodies directed against desmosomal adhesion proteins that are responsible for maintaining integrity of the epidermis. Our patient presented with the commonest type, pemphigus vulgaris, which is associated with oral mucosal ulceration, subsequently followed by the development of superficial blisters. Autoimmune disorders are associated with accelerated atherosclerosis. The relationship between pemphigus vulgaris and myocardial infarction is not clear. This report highlights the presentation and management of myocardial infarction and the possible relationship of acute coronary events with autoimmune disease and chronic steroid use.