HERLITZ DISEASE Meaning and
Definition
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Herlitz Disease, also known as Junctional Epidermolysis Bullosa (JEB) Herlitz Type, is a rare and severe genetic disorder that primarily affects the skin. It falls under the wider umbrella term of Epidermolysis Bullosa (EB), which comprises a group of genetic conditions characterized by extremely fragile skin and mucous membranes.
Herlitz Disease is an autosomal recessive disorder, meaning it is caused by inheriting two mutated copies of the responsible gene - LAMA3, LAMB3, or LAMC2. These genes provide instructions for producing proteins necessary for the formation and stability of the skin and the junctions between its layers. When these proteins are defective or absent, the skin becomes extraordinarily fragile, leading to blistering and erosions from even slight friction or trauma.
The severity of Herlitz Disease distinguishes it from other forms of junctional EB. Infants with this condition are typically born with extensive blistering and erosions all over their bodies, including the mucous membranes of the gastrointestinal and respiratory tracts. Such widespread blistering can lead to serious complications like feeding difficulties, life-threatening infections, compromised airways, and growth failure. Unfortunately, most affected infants do not survive beyond their first year of life.
The diagnosis of Herlitz Disease involves a combination of clinical evaluation, family history analysis, skin biopsy for genetic testing, and sometimes, prenatal genetic testing. Management primarily focuses on symptom relief, preventing infections, and maintaining nutrition. However, no specific cure for the disease is currently available, and treatment mainly involves wound care, protecting the fragile skin, and providing supportive care.
Overall, Herlitz Disease is a devastating and life-threatening condition characterized by severe blistering of the skin and mucous membranes, often
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Etymology of HERLITZ DISEASE
The term "Herlitz Disease" is derived from the name of the German pediatrician, Prof. Elsa Herlitz. She, along with her colleague, Swedish pediatrician Bengt Herberth, described this severe form of junctional epidermolysis bullosa (JEB), a rare genetic skin disorder that primarily affects infants. The condition is characterized by fragile skin that blister and erode easily, leading to numerous complications and often a short life expectancy. Hence, the disease is named after Prof. Elsa Herlitz in recognition of her contribution to its understanding and research.
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