Dermatitis
Herpetiformis
What is
it?
Dermatitis
herpetiformis is an autoimmune disease that causes
clusters of extremely itchy blisters on the skin. The
autoimmune system normally protects the body from
infection and disease. When the autoimmune system
malfunctions, something triggers the body to generate
an immune response against itself.
Who gets
it?
Dermatitis
herpetiformis is uncommon, but appears to be most
prevalent in people of Scandinavian descent.
What
causes it?
Dermatitis
herpetiformis is caused by proteins called glutens
found in foods containing wheat, barley, or rye.
Normally, the immune system sends antibodies to attack
foreign invaders in the body, such as infections.
However, in people with dermatitis herpetiformis, the
glutens trigger the immune system to attack the
patient’s own skin.
What are
the symptoms?
People with
dermatitis herpetiformis have a rash of red bumps and
blisters, usually on the scalp, back of the neck,
elbows, knees, and buttocks. The blisters appear
gradually and cause severe itching and burning. If the
blisters break open, they develop a crusty layer and
can become infected. The skin in the affected area may
become over- or under-pigmented in patients with
repeated recurrences of this disease. People with
dermatitis herpetiformis have a higher risk of
developing cancer in the intestines (gastrointestinal
lymphoma).
How is it
diagnosed?
To diagnose
dermatitis herpetiformis, your doctor will examine a
sample of the affected skin (biopsy) under a
microscope. Certain antibodies are present in skin
with dermatitis herpetiformis.
What is
the treatment?
People with
dermatitis herpetiformis must avoid foods containing
gluten and take medication containing dapsone. An
antipruritic medication may also be prescribed to
relieve the itching. After the disease is under
control, the patient can usually stop taking the
medication or at least decrease the dosage, but must
continue to follow the gluten-free diet.
Self-care
tips
If you have
dermatitis herpetiformis, you must adhere strictly to
a gluten-free diet to avoid flare ups. By doing so,
you can also reduce your risk of gastrointestinal
cancer. Carefully read the labels on all foods. Most
stores stock gluten-free foods for people who have
this type of sensitivity. Your doctor can supply you
with a list of foods to avoid.
This information has been designed as a comprehensive and quick reference
guide written by our health care reviewers. The health information written
by our authors is intended to be a supplement to the care provided by your
physician. It is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for
professional medical advice.
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