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Living with Epidermolysis bullosa simplex, Koebner type

A form of EB simplex with widespread blisters beginning at birth or in infancy.

Understanding Epidermolysis bullosa simplex, Koebner type

Epidermolysis bullosa simplex, Koebner type, is a form of EB simplex that causes widespread skin blisters.

It usually begins at birth or in infancy. Scarring is uncommon. The mouth, fingernails, and toenails may be mildly affected. Skin on the palms and soles may thicken more with age. It is diagnosed from symptoms and genetic testing.

Signs & symptoms

Symptoms vary from person to person. GARD lists these among the most common:

  • Skin blisters, often widespread
  • Fragile skin that blisters without scarring
  • Thick skin on palms and soles
  • Patches of lighter or darker skin

Not everyone has every symptom. GARD's list comes from the Human Phenotype Ontology.

Diagnosis

  1. Talk with your doctor

    Share the symptoms you've noticed, when they started and your family health history. Notes and photos can help.

  2. See a specialist

    Specialists who may be involved include genetic specialists and skin, hair, and nail specialists.

  3. Consider genetic testing

    Changes in KRT14 are linked to this condition. Genetic testing and counseling can help confirm a diagnosis and explain what it means for your family.

  4. Connect with expert centers

    DEBRA of America may keep lists of experts for this condition.

Care & treatment

Care team
Genetic specialists (geneticists); Skin, hair, and nail specialists (dermatologists)
Expert care
Expert lists: DEBRA of America
Treatment
GARD doesn't list specific treatments for this condition. Your care team will tailor care to your symptoms.
Research
Clinical trials and observational studies may be options. See the research section below.

General information, not medical advice. Your care team makes the decisions.

Everyday life

Living with a rare condition is easier with support.

  • Connect with DEBRA of America and other patient organizations
  • Keep notes on symptoms, changes and questions for appointments
  • Ask about patient registries that help research
  • Look into financial aid and travel resources for care visits
Bring these questions to your next doctor visit
Can genetic testing for the KRT14 gene confirm this diagnosis?
How can we prevent blisters in daily life?
Will the thickening of the palms and soles need treatment?

Quick facts

Symptoms usually startNewborn and as an Infant
InheritanceAutosomal Dominant
GenesKRT14

Changes in the KRT14 gene cause this condition. It is autosomal dominant, which means a change in one copy of the gene can cause it.

GeneticSkin

Also known as: autosomal dominant generalized ebs, intermediate form; autosomal dominant generalized epidermolysis bullosa simplex, intermediate form; ebs, generalised intermediate; ebs, generalized intermediate; epidermolysis bullosa simplex 1b, generalized intermediate; epidermolysis bullosa simplex, kobner type

Patient organizations

Source: NIH GARD · Epidermolysis bullosa simplex, Koebner typeGARD ID 2147 · GARD page updated September 2026 · Plain-language summary by Know Rare; editorial review pending. General information, not medical advice.

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