DermNet NZ


Hailey-Hailey disease

What is Hailey-Hailey disease?

Hailey-Hailey disease, sometimes called ‘familial benign chronic pemphigus’ is a rare hereditary blistering skin disease. The Hailey brothers first described it in 1939.

What are the clinical features of Hailey-Hailey disease?

Hailey-Hailey disease usually appears in the third or fourth decade, although it can occur at any age. It typically begins as a painful erosive skin rash in the skin folds. Common sites include the armpits, groins, and neck, under the breasts and between the buttocks. The lesions tend to come and go and leave no scars. As the lesions get bigger the centre clears leaving a typical ring shape. If the lesions are present for some time they may become thickened. The skin then tends to macerate leaving quite painful cracks. Secondary bacterial infection, which is not uncommon, can give rise to an unpleasant smell. White bands on the fingernails and pits in the palms can also occur.

Heat, sweating and friction often exacerbates the disease, and most patients have worse symptoms during the summer months.

Hailey-Hailey disease Hailey-Hailey disease Hailey-Hailey disease
Hailey-Hailey disease

What is the cause of Hailey-Hailey disease?



As yet there is no diagnostic test available to family members.

How is Hailey-Hailey disease diagnosed?

Usually Hailey-Hailey disease is diagnosed by its appearance and the family history, but it is often is mistaken for other skin problems. Impetigo, thrush, tinea (jock itch) and other blistering conditions look similar.

Diagnosis may require a skin biopsy. The histology is characteristic, with layers of detached skin cells (‘acantholysis’). Unlike pemphigus vulgaris, the immunofluorescence test for antibodies is negative.

How is it treated?

Unfortunately there is no cure for Hailey-Hailey disease. Treatment is aimed at reducing symptoms and preventing flares.

Are there any complications?

For many patients Hailey-Hailey disease is a mild condition, but for others the pain and smell can be serious problems. If the lesions get infected with herpes virus a sudden severe flare can occur, which often needs prompt treatment (see above).

Will Hailey-Hailey disease improve in time?


Related information


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Author: Steven Lamb MBChB
Department of Dermatology, Health Waikato.

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