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Dermatitis herpetiformis - Overview

Alternative Names

Duhring's disease

Definition of Dermatitis herpetiformis:

Dermatitis herpetiformis is an extremely itchy rash made of bumps and blisters. The rash is chronic, which means it continues over a long period of time.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Dermatitis herpetiformis usually begins in people age 20 and older, although children may sometimes be affected. It is seen in both men and women.

The cause is unknown. However, dermatitis herpetiformis is frequently linked to gluten sensitivity (celiac sprue disease) in the small bowel.

Dermatitis, herpetiformis - close-up of lesion

Dermatitis, herpetiformis on the knee

Dermatitis, herpetiformis on the arm and legs

Dermatitis, herpetiformis on the thumb

Dermatitis, herpetiformis on the hand

Dermatitis, herpetiformis on the forearm

Reviewed last on: 4/15/2009
Jonathan Kantor, MD, North Florida Dermatology Associates, Jacksonville, FL. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

References

Habif TP. Clinical Dermatology. 4th ed. St. Louis, Mo: Mosby; 2004.

McPherson RA, Pincus MR. Henry's Clinical Diagnosis and Management by Laboratory Methods. 21st ed. St. Louis, Mo: WB Saunders; 2006.

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