What is EB?

(Infographic created by FIENDISH.com)

Epidermolysis Bullosa (EB) is a group of rare genetic skin conditions, which is characterised by extremely fragile skin and recurrent blister formation, resulting from minor mechanical friction or trauma.

The skin has two layers; the outer layer is called the epidermis and the inner layer the dermis. Normally, there are ‘anchors’ between the two layers that prevent them from moving independently from one another. In people with EB, the two skin layers lack the anchors that hold them together, and any action that creates friction between the layers (like rubbing or pressure) will create blisters and painful sores. Sufferers of EB have compared the sores to third-degree burns.