Dermatitis Herpetiformis - Symptoms and Treatment

Dermatitis herpetiformis is a chronic, extremely itchy rash consisting of bumps and blisters. It can occur at any age, but it is most frequently seen in adults. The most common areas are the elbows, knees, back of neck, upper back and near the base of the spine.  DH results from gluten sensitivity and intestinal biopsy nearly always shows the characteristic flattening of intestinal villi.  However, unlike coeliac disease itself, the gastrointestinal symptoms may be mild and are often not apparent at all; less than 10% of people with DH have gastrointestinal symptoms characteristic of coeliac disease . All patients with DH have some degree of coeliac disease, and are very likely to reflect the entire spectrum of histologic and clinical coeliac disease in adults. Celiac disease is caused by a sensitivity to gluten, a protein found in wheat, oats, rye, and barley. The intolerance to gluten causes the lining of the intestine to lose its tiny folds (villi) through which nutrients are absorbed. In addition, digestive enzymes are no longer produced in the intestinal lining in adequate amounts. The common symptoms are foul-smelling diarrhea , bloated abdomen, and anemia .

Dermatitis herpetiformis (DH) is an intensely itchy skin eruption. It usually shows up in young adults, and is more common in men and people originally from some areas of northern Europe. May be associated with an occult malignancy in the elderly patient. It is a skin disorder often associated with celiac disease. It 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. It is characterized by the presence of IgA deposits in the upper dermis skin and the diagnosis should not be made in the absence of these deposits. It is also known as Brocq-During disease, dermatitis multiformis, Duhring disease, and gluten-sensitive enteropathy. The HLA-B8 gene is found in 80% of patients with gluten enteropathy and dermatitis herpetiformis. It is characterised by skin lesions, with intense itching and burning sensations.

Causes of Dermatitis Herpetiformis

Causes of Causes of Dermatitis Herpetiformis :

• It's main cause is proteins called glutens found in foods containing wheat, barley, or rye.
• The some halides, such as iodide may cause a flare to dermatitis herpatiformis.
• It usually occurs in middle adult life. A slow onset during adulthood is typical, but children can be affected. Males are affected more than females.
• The immunologic abnormalities may also lead to the condition of dermatitis herpetiformis. The presence in lesions of IgA (immunoglobulin) and complement components supports an immunoregulatory disturbance.

Symptoms of Dermatitis Herpetiformis

Some common Symptoms of Dermatitis Herpetiformis :

• Inability to concentrate.
• Excessive gas and constipation.
• The eruption is very itchy and may keep sufferers awake at night.
• Abdominal pain.
• Skin rash.
• Weakness.
• Weight loss.

Treatment of Dermatitis Herpetiformis

• A diet free of gluten products often improves dermatitis Herpetiformis, but it is a tough diet to follow.
• The blisters and rash will go away without treatment. Some ointments and creams are given to help with the itching of the rash
• Strict adherence to a lifelong gluten-free diet (GFD) can eliminate symptoms of DH and the intestinal abnormalities, as well as reduce or eliminate the need for medication in most people.
• Topical steroid creams, lotions, and ointments to reduce inflammation. These medications are effective.
• The sulfapyridine is the primary medications used to treat DH.
• Tetracycline, is an alternative treatment for dermatitis herpetiformis.
• Cool-water soaks to soothe irritation and decrease itching.
• Antihistamines reduce itching and may allow you to rest more easily. They may cause drowsiness, so use these agents cautiously when driving or performing other activities in which you must be awake and alert.

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