Pemphigus and pemphigoid are serious autoimmune diseases and if left untreated, can be life-threatening.   However effective treatments are available.

PEM Friends  is dedicated to providing information and support to people living with pemphigus; including family members, friends and medical professionals who care about and care for them.

We are linked to "The International Pemphigus & Pemphigoid Foundation" which is the main international organ of information and support for patients affected by pemphigus, pemphigoid and the variants of each.  To access all the information, advice and article archive provided by the IPPF, see their website:   www.pemphigus.org

PEM Friends provides friendship and support, basic facts, frequently updated information about these diseases and helpful services, including:

• new and traditional treatments
• advice on ways to improve nutrition and quality of life
• access to our physician referral service
• alerts about current clinical trials
• notices and reports on  PEM Friends' meetings
• a large collection of medical, governmental and other helpful resources
• H1N1 News! Thank you to the IPPF.

In addition to the facts, you'll also find emotional support here. Those of us who live with and treat these relatively rare diseases share an uncommon bond, and PEM Friends is the place to share personal stories, pose questions, and ask for and receive help, advice, guidance and friendship.  Remember, we've all been through what you're going through - so who better to chat with about your emotional and physical state.

Because these diseases are so rare and often misdiagnosed, PEM Friends is also dedicated to increasing awareness of pemphigus within the medical community. This is of vital importance, since with proper diagnosis and the right therapies, combined with helpful support systems and a good attitude, pemphigus patients can effectively deal with these life-threatening conditions.

Thanks to the caring support of its members and the medical community, PEM Friends is here to help patients and caregivers alike.