Q: What doctor treats epidermolysis bullosa?
A: A pediatrician / neonatologist is usually the first health care specialist who diagnoses the condition. Further management is done by the department of dermatology. Expert advice and help from the fields of Internal Medicine or General Surgery are also called upon.
Q: Is epidermolysis bullosa preventable?
A: The disease is an inherited one and cannot be prevented. Prospective parents with a family history of epidermolysis bullosa may attend genetic counselling. Prenatal tests like chorionic villous sampling can detect the defect.
Q: Are complications of epidermolysis bullosa preventable?
A: Patients with EB require extreme care. Contact sports may be avoided. It is also advised to wear padding around areas such as the elbows, knees, ankles, and buttocks which are prone to frictional injury.
Patients taking steroids may need calcium and vitamin D supplements. Prolonged steroid intake can lead to fragile bones (osteoporosis).
Q: Is bone marrow transplant a permanent cure for epidermolysis bullosa?
A: Studies are yet to produce results that support bone marrow transplantation as a cure for epidermolysis bullosa.
