The Johns Hopkins Laboratory For Translational Research in Pemphigus HISTORY Although our understanding of autoimmune diseases has increased tremendously in the last decade, pemphigus remains a devastating disease for those who are affected and their family members. Pemphigus affects adults in their most productive years, the middle years of life. Fifty years ago, the diagnosis of pemphigus meant certain death. Currently, the chance of dying from the disease or the compliations of treatment is remote. However, the immunosuppressive therapy required to control the disease is oppressive. It changes one's life with devastating physical and psychological stresses and sets in place the potential for serious side effects, some of which might not become apparent for years or decades after treatment.