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ALL / Dermatology
Dermatitis herpetiformis
Dermatitis herpetiformis
Dermatitis herpetiformis is an autoimmune blistering skin disorder associated with coeliac disease. It is caused by deposition of IgA in the dermis. More than 90% of patients exhibit small bowel biopsy findings consistent with some degree of gluten-sensitive enteropathy.Features
- itchy, vesicular skin lesions on the extensor surfaces (e.g. elbows, knees, buttocks)
Dermatitis herpetiformis in a young male who presented with a bilateral, symmetrical, intensely pruritic papulovesicular rash. Image used on license from DermNet NZ
Dermatitis herpetiformis. Image used on license from DermNet NZ and with the kind permission of Prof Raimo Suhonen
Dermatitis herpetiformis in a middle-aged female who presented with pruritic vesicles on her knees and elbows. Image used on license from DermNet NZ
Dermatitis herpetiformis. Image used on license from DermNet NZ
Diagnosis
- skin biopsy: direct immunofluorescence shows deposition of IgA in a granular pattern in the upper dermis
Management
- gluten-free diet
- dapsone
+PassMedicine Notes
Dermatitis herpetiformis is an autoimmune blistering skin disorder associated with coeliac disease. It is caused by deposition of IgA in the dermis. More than 90% of patients exhibit small bowel biopsy findings consistent with some degree of gluten-sensitive enteropathy.
Features- itchy, vesicular skin lesions on the extensor surfaces (e.g. elbows, knees, buttocks)
- skin biopsy: direct immunofluorescence shows deposition of IgA in a granular pattern in the upper dermis
- gluten-free diet
- dapsone