Living With Epidermolysis Bullosa

When fragile skin makes wound care part of everyday life, dependable support and access to the right supplies matter.

living-with-eb-hero

UNDERSTANDING EB

What is Epidermolysis Bullosa?

Epidermolysis Bullosa (EB) is a group of rare genetic conditions that cause the skin to be fragile and blister easily. Even gentle friction or minor trauma can cause the skin to shear, creating wounds that require ongoing care.

There are several types of EB, and each affects the skin differently. Some forms are milder, while others are more severe and involve broader challenges. What they share is the need for careful, consistent wound care and access to the right supplies.

TYPES OF EB

The Major types of Epidermolysis Bullosa

EB is not one condition. Type, subtype, and severity can influence skin involvement, wound burden, complications, and the supplies a patient may need. Select a type to expand the clinical overview.

The most common form of EB. Blistering usually occurs within the outer layer of the skin and is often triggered by friction, heat, or minor trauma. Severity can range from localized blistering of the hands and feet to more widespread disease.

A less common form in which skin separation occurs within the basement membrane zone. JEB can range from moderate disease to severe forms that may involve mucous membranes, the respiratory tract, gastrointestinal tract, and other systems.

Blistering occurs below the basement membrane due to abnormalities involving type VII collagen. Repeated injury and healing may lead to scarring, contractures, fusion of fingers or toes, and chronic wounds. DEB may be inherited as either:

  • Dominant Dystrophic EB (DDEB)
  • Recessive Dystrophic EB (RDEB)
A rare form of EB characterized by blistering at multiple levels of the skin. Patients may also develop photosensitivity, skin thinning, pigment changes, and progressive scarring.

EB & GENETICS

EB is caused by changes in genes that help keep the skin strong.

Different genetic changes can cause different types of Epidermolysis Bullosa. Some forms can be passed down from one parent, while others occur when a child inherits a changed gene from both parents.

EB can also appear in a family with no known history of the condition.

Genetic testing may help:

  • Confirm the type or subtype of EB
  • Explain how EB may have been inherited
  • Help families understand the chance of EB occurring in future pregnancies
  • Guide conversations with the healthcare team or a genetic counselor

Important to know:

Genetics can help explain the type of EB, but every person’s experience is different. Wound care and dressing needs should always be based on the individual’s skin, wounds, comfort, and daily needs.

EVERYDAY REALITY

Why wound care can be an ongoing part of life with EB

For many people living with EB, wound care is not a one-time event. Blisters and wounds can appear regularly, and managing them is part of a daily routine.

Recurring Wounds

New blisters can form from everyday activities, making wound care a regular part of life rather than a one-time treatment.

Supply Dependence

Consistent access to the right dressings and supplies is essential to keep up with daily care routines.

Gentle Protection

Products must protect fragile skin without causing further damage during application or removal.

ONE SIZE DOES NOT FIT ALL

Individualized care is essential

There is no single wound-care product that works for every person or every wound. Product selection depends on the type of wound, its location, drainage, the individual’s skin tolerance, and personal preference.

  • Different wounds on the same person may need different products at the same time.
  • What works today may need adjustment as wounds heal or circumstances change.
  • Your physician or nurse should guide product selection and dressing change frequency.
  • Personal tolerance and comfort play an important role in product choices.

WORKING TOGETHER

EB Care is TEAMWORK

EB wound care works best when patients, caregivers, and clinical teams work together. Each plays a distinct role.

Patients & Caregivers

Manage daily care routines, observe changes, and communicate needs to the care team.

Clinical Team

Diagnoses, prescribes treatment, selects products, and monitors healing progress.

Clara Care

Helps navigate supply access, insurance coordination, and delivery so care can continue without interruption.

RELIABLE ACCESS MATTERS

Continuity of supplies should not be a burden

Gaps in supply access can disrupt care routines and add stress for patients and caregivers. Clara Care helps reduce that burden by coordinating the supply process from order through delivery.

Consistent Supply Access

Working as a team to help prevent gaps in the products you rely on.

Insurance Coordination

Supporting insurance verification and clinical documentation review.

Dedicated Nurse Specialist

An assigned nurse you can securely text, call, or email whenever you need support.

INDEPENDENT RESOURCES

Trusted EB Resources

Independent organizations can provide education, advocacy, research updates, community connections, and additional support for people and families affected by Epidermolysis Bullosa.

DEBRA of America

Provides direct-to-patient programs, education, advocacy, wound-care resources, and support for individuals and families living with EB.

EB Research Partnership

A global nonprofit focused on funding research to develop treatments and ultimately cure Epidermolysis Bullosa.

EB Hope Foundation

Supports the EB community through awareness, family resources, fundraising, and support for EB research and organizations.

NEXT STEP

Ready to explore EB wound care and supplies?

Learn how the right products work together to protect fragile skin, manage drainage, and support the care plan your healthcare team prescribes.

Ready to get started with EB supplies?

Our nurse-specialist team is ready to help you navigate the supply process.

Educational information only. This microsite does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations. Product and treatment selection should be directed by your healthcare team. Always follow your physician or nurse's care plan. Clara Care does not collect protected health information (PHI) through this form. Patient documents should be sent through Clara's secure document upload process.

© 2024 Clara Healthcare, Inc. All rights reserved.
EB Microsite Prototype · Not for clinical use