Rashes: Celiac Sprue Disease and Dermatitis Herpetiformis

Rashes can result from Celiac sprue disease and Dermatitis herpetiformis (DH). DH is a severe itchy, blistering skin disease caused by gluten or wheat intolerance in children and adults. DH is related to celiac disease since both are autoimmune disorders caused by gluten or wheat intolerance, but they are separate diseases. The rash usually occurs on the elbows, knees, and buttocks.

Dermatitis Herpetiformis and Gluten/Wheat Intolerance in Children and Adults

Although people with DH do not usually have digestive symptoms, they often have the same intestinal damage as people with celiac disease.

DH is diagnosed by a skin biopsy, which involves removing a tiny piece of skin near the rash and testing it for the IgA antibody. DH, caused by gluten/wheat intolerance in children and adults, is treated with a gluten-free diet and medication to control the rash, such as dapsone or sulfapyridine. Drug treatment for rashes from Celiac sprue disease and Dermatitis herpetiformis may last several years.

• How is Celiac Disease Diagnosed?
• Screening of Celiac Disease
• Treatment of Celiac Disease
• The Gluten Free Diet
• What is Celiac Disease?
• What are the Symptoms of Celiac Disease?
• What are the Complications of Celiac Disease?