pemphigus

noun

pem·​phi·​gus ˈpem(p)-fi-gəs How to pronounce pemphigus (audio) pem-ˈfī- How to pronounce pemphigus (audio)
: an autoimmune disease marked by blisters on skin and mucous membranes and often by itching or burning

Examples of pemphigus in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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People with other autoimmune diseases are more likely to have pemphigus vulgaris, according to the NIH. Maggie O'Neill, Health.com, 29 July 2019

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Greek pemphig-, pemphix pustule

First Known Use

circa 1779, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of pemphigus was circa 1779

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Cite this Entry

“Pemphigus.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pemphigus. Accessed 26 Nov. 2024.

Medical Definition

pemphigus

noun
pem·​phi·​gus ˈpem(p)-fi-gəs How to pronounce pemphigus (audio) pem-ˈfī-gəs How to pronounce pemphigus (audio)
plural pemphiguses or pemphigi -ˌjī How to pronounce pemphigus (audio)
: any of several autoimmune diseases characterized by the formation of successive eruptions of large blisters on apparently normal skin and mucous membranes often in association with sensations of itching or burning

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