What is Dermatitis Herpetiformis?

Dermatitis Herpetiformis (DH) is a severely itchy skin condition that often starts abruptly, affecting the elbows, knees, buttocks, scalp,
and back. It usually starts as little bumps that can become tiny blisters that are usually scratched off, therefore leaving scabs, and
sometimes scars.

The condition is related to IgA deposits under the skin. These occur as a result of ingesting gluten. These deposits take a long time to
clear up, even when the patient is on a gluten-free diet.

About 5%  of Celiac patients will develop DH. You can have Celiac Sprue with out having D.H., but generally individuals with DH also
have the disease Celiac Sprue. There is no cure for DH, except a gluten free diet. Many physicians offer a prescription called Dapzone,
but Dapzone has dangerous side effect, it is actually a drug used to treat leprosy. It can cause liver and kidney damage.

Image of Individual with D.H.

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