Diseases
dermatitis herpetiformis
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Overview
Dermatitis herpetiformis causes itchy bumps and burning blisters as a result of a gluten sensitivity that makes your immune system overreact. You may have this condition if you also have celiac disease. Although the bumps on your skin look similar to herpes, you don’t have herpes. Treatment with medications and a gluten-free diet is effective.
Symptoms
- diarrhea
- discolored bumps (lesions) and itchy
- discoloration or horizontal grooves on your teeth
- constipation
Causes
- an autoimmune reaction to gluten causes dermatitis herpetiformis.
Risk factors
- age 30 to 60.
- being a male
Diagnosis
- blood test.
- skin biopsy
Medicines used
Frequently asked questions
What is dermatitis herpetiformis?
Dermatitis herpetiformis causes itchy bumps and burning blisters as a result of a gluten sensitivity that makes your immune system overreact. You may have this condition if you also have celiac disease. Although the bumps on your skin look similar to herpes, you don’t have herpes. Treatment with medications and a gluten-free diet is effective.
What are the symptoms of dermatitis herpetiformis?
diarrhea, discolored bumps (lesions) and itchy, discoloration or horizontal grooves on your teeth, constipation
What causes dermatitis herpetiformis?
an autoimmune reaction to gluten causes dermatitis herpetiformis.
Which medicines are used for dermatitis herpetiformis?
dapsone
Full monographs, dosing and an interaction checker in the MediHelp app
Open the complete reference, check multi-drug interactions and use dosing tools in the MediHelp app.