Dermatitis Herpetiformis (DH) is a severe, itchy, blistering skin disease caused by gluten intolerance. DH is related to celiac disease since both are autoimmune disorders caused by gluten intolerance, but they are separate diseases. The rash usually occurs on the elbows, knees and buttocks.

Although people with DH do not usually have digestive symptoms, they often have the same intestinal damage as people with celiac disease.

DH is diagnosed by a skin biopsy, which involves removing a tiny piece of skin near the rash and testing it for the IgA antibody. DH is treated with a gluten-free diet and medication to control the rash, such as Dapsone or Sulfapyridine. Drug treatment may last several years.


More Information...
What is Celiac Disease?
What are the Symptoms?
How is Celiac Disease Diagnosed?
Screening
What is the Treatment?
The Gluten-Free Diet
What are the Complications of Celiac Disease?
How Common is Celiac Disease?
Dermatitis Herpetiformis