Epidermolysis bullosa simplex: A case report

Abstract

Epidermolysis bullosa (EB) is a rare hereditary cutaneous disorder inherited mainly in an autosomal dominant fashion. It consists of a group of conditions that cause the skin to be fragile and blister easily. EB has been classified into three types namely; simplex, junctional and dystrophic. Although all three types of EB have different causes, their symptoms are similar, manifesting as painful blisters and sores. Epidermolysis bullosa is a very rare condition but may probably be more common in clinical practice than reported in literature, especially in places like Nigeria where there is under reporting of clinical cases. To the knowledge of the authors, there are few reported cases in Nigeria and none from Bayelsa State in the delta region of the country. We herein present a case of epidermolysis bullosa simplex (Dowling Meara type) in a 35 day old infant. This case is reported with the aim of increasing awareness of its existence in Nigeria and Bayelsa State in particular.

Key words: epidermolysis bullosa simplex, case, skin ulcers