International guidelines published for diagnosing "butterfly disease"
An international team of experts led by Prof. Dr. Cristina Has, head of the Molecular Dermatology research group in the Department of Dermatology at the Medical Center - University of Freiburg, has for the first time developed guidelines for the diagnosis of the skin disease epidermolysis bullosa. They were published in the specialist magazine British Journal of Dermatology.
Structured diagnostics should give patients more clarity about the disease more quickly. In addition, the recommendations will help to better tailor treatment and facilitate long-term monitoring of those affected. "In future, the guidelines will help in making the most meaningful tests at the appropriate time. As a result it will be easier on patients, and diagnostic costs will be reduced," says Has, head of molecular diagnostics and Acting Senior Physician in the Department of Dermatology at the Medical Center - University of Freiburg. Among other things, the experts emphasize in the guidelines that genetic testing is superior to tissue analysis.
Epidermolysis bullosa is a rare disease. It is referred to colloquially as the butterfly disease, because the skin of those affected is very sensitive. The lightest pressure can cause blisters and wounds to form. The skin can be damaged even by bandages or while eating.
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