What causes epidermolysis bullosa?

What causes epidermolysis bullosa?

A mutation (defect) in one of 18 genes causes EB. People with the disorder have a missing or damaged gene that affects a protein used to make collagen. Collagen gives connective tissues, like skin, their strength and structure. Because of this defect, the epidermis and dermis layers of your skin don’t bind together as they normally would. This results in skin that’s fragile and blisters and tears easily.

EB is usually an inherited disorder, which means that one parent may have it and pass it down to their children.

In rare cases, EB may also be an acquired autoimmune disorder.