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Living with Recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa-generalized other

A rare genetic skin condition with blisters on the skin and mucous membranes, without severe deformities.

Understanding Recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa-generalized other

Recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa, generalized other, is a rare type of dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa with widespread blistering of the skin and mucous membranes.

It is not linked to severe deformities. It starts in the newborn period. People may have fragile skin, scarring, feeding trouble, and slow growth.

Signs & symptoms

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

  • Widespread skin blisters
  • Fragile skin and wounds that heal slowly
  • Scarring and uneven skin color
  • Narrowing of the esophagus (esophageal stricture)
  • Feeding difficulties and slow growth
  • Anemia and dental cavities

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 eye disease specialists, genetic specialists and skin, hair, and nail specialists.

  3. Consider genetic testing

    Changes in COL7A1 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
Eye disease specialists (ophthalmologists); 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
Would genetic testing for the COL7A1 gene help our family?
How can swallowing and nutrition be supported?
How should wounds and dental health be cared for?

Quick facts

Symptoms usually startNewborn
InheritanceAutosomal Recessive
GenesCOL7A1

This condition is caused by changes in the COL7A1 gene. A child inherits a changed copy of the gene from each parent (autosomal recessive).

GeneticSkin

Also known as: autosomal recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa generalisata mitis; autosomal recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa, generalised other; autosomal recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa, generalized other; autosomal recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa, non-hallopeau-siemens type; autosomal recessive generalized dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa, intermediate form; generalised mitis rdeb

Patient organizations

Source: NIH GARD · Recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa-generalized otherGARD ID 12794 · GARD page updated September 2026 · Plain-language summary by Know Rare; editorial review pending. General information, not medical advice.

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