Which autoimmune disease targets hemidesmosomes (the basement-membrane attachment), producing a subepithelial split and desquamative gingivitis?

Correct answer: A. Mucous membrane pemphigoid (MMP)

• A. Correct. MMP attacks hemidesmosomes/basement-membrane components, causing a subepithelial (full-thickness) blister and desquamative gingivitis with ocular risk.
• B. Pemphigus vulgaris targets desmosomes (intraepithelial split), not hemidesmosomes.
• C. Lichen planus is T-cell attack on basal keratinocytes, not an anti-hemidesmosome antibody disease.
• D. Aphthous stomatitis is not an autoimmune blistering disease of hemidesmosomes.