There are four main types of epidermolysis bullosa:
- Epidermolysis bullosa simplex
- Junctional epidermolysis bullosa
- Dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa
- Hemidesmosomal epidermolysis bullosa
All of the different types of epidermolysis bullosa are generally inherited. Therefore, having a family history of the disease, especially an affected parent, is a risk factor. The inheritance pattern may be dominant or recessive. A dominant form means that an offspring can inherit the gene or trait from one affected parent. The recessive form means that both parents must carry a gene and transmit that gene to the offspring in order for the infant or child to be affected.