Definition:
Dermal herpetiformis is a disorder of the skin, chronic in nature and is characterized as extremely itchy rash. Otherwise known as Duhring's disease, this condition is associated to a person's sensitivity to gluten in cereals specifically the intestine. The rashes is consist of papules and a fluid-filled blister or vesicle. It usually is common on men and women in their twenties. It is also often connected to celiac disease which is an autoimmune disorder of the small bowel.
Diagnosis:
Dermal herpetiformis can be diagnosed using an immunohistochemical technique using the avidin-biotin-peroxidase complex. It is regarded as equally effective procedure as direct immunofluorescence in detecting IgA. Detection of IgA in the unaffected skin of patients with this disease is the most reliable way to establish the diagnosis, it is also considered one of the easiest test to perform.
Treatment:
Gluten-free diet is often recommended to control the disease without the help of medications, although in most cases, an anti-biotic, Dapson, is helpful.
Symptoms and Signs:
Vesicles and papules that appear usually in the pressure points such as elbow, knees, buttocks, and the back part which are extremely itchy.
Causes:
It is a systemic condition caused by gluten in cereals which affects the intestine.
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