Epidermolysis Bullosa (EB) is the name given to a group
of genetically inherited skin blistering conditions. A fault in the genes means that the
layers of the skin do not adhere. The result is blistering and shearing of the skin from
even the gentlest friction and sometimes even spontaneously.
The many forms of EB fall into three major types: Simplex, Dystrophic and
Junctional. These vary from relatively mild to incapacitating, crippling and sometimes
fatal disorders. EB is always painful and, in most cases, leads to increasing deformity
and disability.
Research in Scotland estimates the prevalence of EB to be 1:17,000. The blisters and
scarring caused by EB occur continuously throughout life. At present, there are no
effective treatments for EB.
