MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Dermatitis herpetiformis

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Dermatitis herpetiformis

Contents of this page:
Illustrations Alternative names Definition Causes, incidence, and risk factors Symptoms Signs and tests	Treatment Support Groups Expectations (prognosis) Complications Calling your health care provider Prevention

Illustrations

Dermatitis, herpetiformis - close-up of lesion

Dermatitis, herpetiformis on the knee

Dermatitis, herpetiformis on the arm and legs

Dermatitis, herpetiformis on the thumb

Dermatitis, herpetiformis on the hand

Dermatitis, herpetiformis on the forearm

Alternative names Return to top

Duhring's Disease

Definition Return to top

Dermatitis herpetiformis is a chronic, extremely itchy rash consisting of papules and vesicles. Dermatitis herpetiformis is associated with sensitivity of the intestine to gluten in the diet (celiac sprue).

Causes, incidence, and risk factors Return to top

Dermatitis herpetiformis usually begins in the twenties, though children may sometimes be affected. It is seen in both men and women.

Though the cause of the rash is unknown, dermatitis herpetiformis is frequently associated with gluten (a protein found in cereals) sensitivity in the small bowel.

Symptoms Return to top

Dermatitis herpetiformis is usually extremely itchy. The vesicles or papules usually appear on the elbows, knees, back, and buttocks. In most cases, it is highly symmetric. Symptoms of dermatitis herpetiformis tend to wax and wane.

Signs and tests Return to top

A skin biopsy and direct immunofluorescence test of the skin are performed in most cases. Your doctor may additionally recommend a biopsy of the intestines.

Treatment Return to top

Dapsone, an antibiotic, may help the majority of patients.

A strict gluten-free diet will also be recommended to help control the disease. Adherence to this diet may eliminate the need for medications and prevent later complications.

Support Groups Return to top

The Celiac Sprue Association may offer support for people with dermatitis herpetiformis.

PO Box 31700, Omaha, NE 68131
(402) 558-0600
www.csaceliacs.org

Expectations (prognosis) Return to top

The disease may be well controlled with treatment.

Complications Return to top

Thyroid disease may be found in many patients with dermatitis herpetiformis. Patients are also more likely to develop certain cancers of the intestines.

Calling your health care provider Return to top

Call your physician if you develop an itchy rash or diarrhea.

Prevention Return to top

There is no known prevention of this disease. Avoidance of gluten containing foods will help prevent complications in affected patients.

Update Date: 10/27/2003

Updated by: Jeffrey Drayer, M.D., Dermatologist, Los Angeles, CA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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