Dermatitis Herpetiformis is a disease, which is autoimmune, in which intensely itchy clusters, hive-like swellings, and small blisters break out and persist.

Dermatitis Herpetiformis is most likely to occur in people between age fifteen and sixty; it is rarely to occur in asian or blacks. In individuals with Dermatitis Herpetiformis, proteins (glutens) in wheat, barley, rye, and oat products activate the immune system, which attack skin parts and somehow result in the itching and rash.

Individuals with such a disease almost always have intestinal disease signs (celiac disease). Such individuals also may progress thyroid disease. Small blister generally develops slowly, especially, on the back, buttocks, and knees. In some cases, such blisters can break out on the neck or face. Burning and itching may be severe.

The diagnosis of Dermatitis Herpetiformis is made by fresh skin specimen testing to find antibodies in the person’s skin structure. Treatment might not be required, if an individual has strict diet free of oats, weats, barley or rye.

Anti-inflammatory medications including ibuprofen, can result in worsening of the rash. Such medications, as dapsone, nearly always provides relief in one to two days. Such drug has various possible side effects, especially, on blood cells, and commonly results in anemia.

In most individuals, Dermatitis Herpetiformis lasts for long periods of time.

This entry was filed under Diseases and Conditions.

Tags: celiac disease, dermatitis, dermatitis herpetiformis, disease signs, oat products, oats, strict diet, wheat barley