Epidermolysis Bullosa (EB) is a genetic condition where the skin breaks at the slightest touch, causing painful, open blisters and wounds. EB can mean a life of extreme pain, disability and, at its worst it is fatal in infancy. People with severe EB are likely to contract a fatal skin cancer. DEBRA provides specialist EB nursing, funds extensive medical research and provides counselling, welfare, respite and advocacy.

What does the name mean?

The skin is made up of a number of different layers. The outer is called the epidermis; the inner layers are the dermis. "Bullosa" is simply the name for a blister and "lysis" means breakdown. Hence, Epidermolysis Bullosa means the breakdown and blistering of the epidermis.

What are butterfly children?

The youngest sufferers are called butterfly children because their skin is as fragile as a butterfly's wing.