Surreal illustration of the immune system attacking skin cells, symbolizing the connection between viral infections and autoimmune diseases like pemphigus.

Pemphigus and Viral Infections: Understanding the Link and Protecting Your Health

Reese Marlowe in Health & Wellness June 2025 • 4 min read.

"Is there a connection between pemphigus, a rare autoimmune skin condition, and common viral infections like hepatitis B and C? New research explores the potential links and what they mean for your health."

Pemphigus is a rare autoimmune disease affecting the skin and mucous membranes, causing blisters and sores that can be painful and debilitating. While the exact cause of pemphigus remains elusive, researchers have long suspected that certain triggers may play a role in its development, particularly in individuals with a genetic predisposition. Among these potential triggers, viral infections have garnered significant attention.

Viruses like hepatitis B (HBV) and hepatitis C (HCV) have been implicated in the development of various autoimmune disorders, suggesting a possible connection between viral infections and the immune system's tendency to attack its own tissues. In the context of pemphigus, the question arises: Could these common viral infections be contributing factors in the onset or progression of the disease?

A recent study has investigated the relationship between pemphigus and HBV and HCV infections. The study aimed to determine if there is a higher prevalence of these viral infections among pemphigus patients compared to a healthy control group. By examining the serological markers of HBV and HCV in both groups, the researchers sought to shed light on the potential association between these infections and the development of pemphigus.

Unpacking the Research: Hepatitis and Pemphigus

Surreal illustration of the immune system attacking skin cells, symbolizing the connection between viral infections and autoimmune diseases like pemphigus.

The study involved 62 pemphigus patients and 50 healthy controls. Researchers tested for Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), Hepatitis B surface antibody (HBsAb), and anti-HCV antibodies in both groups. The goal was to determine if pemphigus patients had a higher rate of Hepatitis B and/or C infections compared to the control group.

The findings indicated that Hepatitis C virus antibody was negative in all pemphigus patients. Two (4.3%) of the 44 pemphigus patients who were tested for Hepatitis B were positive for HBsAg, indicating a current HBV infection. Only 1 (2%) patient in the control group tested positive for HBsAg. This means, relatively low rate of HBV and HCV infections found in pemphigus patients and control groups.

The results of the study suggest that there is not a statistically significant difference in the prevalence of hepatitis B and C virus infections between pemphigus patients and healthy controls. Here's what to consider:

HCV: No pemphigus patients tested positive for Hepatitis C antibodies.
HBV: 4.3% of pemphigus patients tested positive for HBsAg (Hepatitis B surface antigen), indicating an active HBV infection.
Control Group: Only 2% of the control group tested positive for HBsAg.
Statistical Significance: The difference in HBV and HCV infection rates between the two groups was not statistically significant.

While the study did not find a statistically significant association between HBV and HCV infections and pemphigus, it's essential to interpret these findings with caution. The researchers themselves acknowledge that the relatively small sample size may have limited their ability to detect subtle differences between the groups. Further research with larger cohorts is needed to confirm or refute these findings.

The Ongoing Quest: More Research Needed

The study provides valuable insights into the complex relationship between pemphigus and viral infections. While the results do not support a strong association between hepatitis B and C virus infections and the development of pemphigus, they do highlight the need for continued research in this area. Large-scale studies with diverse populations are essential to unravel the potential role of viral infections and other environmental factors in triggering autoimmune responses like pemphigus.

About this Article -

This article was crafted using a human-AI hybrid and collaborative approach. AI assisted our team with initial drafting, research insights, identifying key questions, and image generation. Our human editors guided topic selection, defined the angle, structured the content, ensured factual accuracy and relevance, refined the tone, and conducted thorough editing to deliver helpful, high-quality information.See our About page for more information.

This article is based on research published under:

DOI-LINK: 10.1590/abd1806-4841.20142566, Alternate LINK

Title: Hepatitis C And Hepatitis B Virus Infections In The Etiopathogenesis Of Pemphigus

Subject: Dermatology

Journal: Anais Brasileiros de Dermatologia

Publisher: FapUNIFESP (SciELO)

Authors: Gulsen Tukenmez Demirci, Ikbal Esen Aydingoz, Ayse Tulin Mansur, Guldehan Atis, Ilknur Kivanc Altunay

Published: 2014-06-01

Everything You Need To Know

What is pemphigus and what are its primary symptoms?

Pemphigus is a rare autoimmune disease that affects the skin and mucous membranes. Its primary symptoms include the formation of painful and debilitating blisters and sores on the skin and in the mouth or other mucous membranes. The exact cause remains elusive, but it's thought to be triggered by factors in individuals with a genetic predisposition. Viral infections are suspected as potential triggers. Distinguishing pemphigus from other blistering diseases often involves a biopsy and specific antibody testing.

Do hepatitis B and C infections directly cause pemphigus?

The study explored the relationship between Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) and Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) infections and pemphigus. The study found no statistically significant difference in the prevalence of HBV and HCV infections between pemphigus patients and healthy controls. The absence of statistical significance does not definitively rule out a connection; larger studies may reveal a subtle association, as the current research acknowledges limitations due to sample size.

What did the research study specifically investigate regarding pemphigus, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C?

The research study investigated the prevalence of Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) and Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) infections among pemphigus patients compared to a healthy control group. Researchers examined serological markers, specifically Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), Hepatitis B surface antibody (HBsAb), and anti-HCV antibodies, in both groups. The study aimed to determine if pemphigus patients exhibited a higher rate of HBV and/or HCV infections, suggesting a potential link between these viral infections and the autoimmune disease.

What are the implications of the study's findings for individuals with pemphigus or those at risk of developing it?

Given the study's finding of no statistically significant association between Hepatitis B Virus (HBV), Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) infections, and pemphigus, it suggests that routine screening for these viruses in pemphigus patients may not be warranted based solely on this study. However, it's important to note that the study highlights the complexity of autoimmune diseases and the need for ongoing research to explore potential environmental triggers, including viral infections. Those at risk should focus on overall immune health and consult with healthcare professionals for personalized advice.

What are the limitations of this research, and what further studies are needed to better understand the relationship between viral infections and pemphigus?

The study acknowledges that its relatively small sample size is a significant limitation, potentially hindering its ability to detect subtle differences in Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) and Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) infection rates between pemphigus patients and the control group. To gain a more comprehensive understanding, future research should involve larger, more diverse cohorts. These studies should also explore other potential environmental and genetic factors that may contribute to the development of pemphigus, as well as investigate the molecular mechanisms by which viral infections might trigger or exacerbate autoimmune responses in susceptible individuals. Longitudinal studies tracking individuals over time could also provide valuable insights into the temporal relationship between viral infections and the onset of pemphigus.