Recent studies by the applicants have strongly indicated that immunologic phenomena are intimately involved in the pathogenesis of Mooren's ulcer and cicatricial pemphigoid. It is proposed to study and treat patients with cicatricial pemphigoid, Mooren's ulcer and other corneal diseases suspected of having autoimmune components. Because the diseases we are studying are relatively uncommon and because laboratories with capabilities for extensive and varied immunological testing are also uncommon, referral patients are solicited in order to gather significant data on the course, pathogenesis and treatment of these painful, blinding diseases. Specifically, a significant patient population will enable us to characterize the diseases as to their genetic aspects, possible etiologic factors, course of the diseases and relate these findings to in-depth immunological studies. Finally, we will evaluate treatment modalities based on the clinical signs and symptoms of the diseases and on the immunopathological parameters in the tissues and sera of the patients.
NIH ExPorter
NIH ExPorter