TUNISIAN PEMPHIGUS - ABOUT 70 CASES - EXP ERIENCE OF THE DERMATOLOGICAL SERVICE OF LA-RABTA-HOSPITAL BETWEEN 1974 AND 1992

Introduction. Pemphigus frequently seen in Tunisia has specific charac teristics distinguishing it from the European or American forms. Betwe en 1974 and 1992, we observed 70 cases in the dermatology unit of the La Rabata University Hospital in Tunis. Most patients were young (mean age 39 yr), predominantly women (80%). Deep pemphigus (pemphigus vulg aris and vegetans) occurred in 56% and superficial pemphigus (seborrhe ic and foliaceus) in 44%. High-dose corticosteroids were given as init ial treatment (1.4 mg/kg/day). Infectious complications were frequent. Mortality was 14%. Pemphigus in Europe and North America usually occu rs in adults in the 50-60 year age range. Superficial forms are rare ( 2-10%). In Tunisia, pemphigus is similar to Brazilian pemphigus with h igh frequency and predominant superifical forms (pemphigus foliaceus).