Dühring's dermatitis is a chronic disease accompanied by a systemic lesion of the body, in particular, skin tissues and intestinal mucosa. Patients with dermatitis herpetiformis suffer from a recurring rash. Interestingly, men are more susceptible to this disease, although it also occurs among women.
Dühring's dermatitis herpetiformis and its causes
This disease is autoimmune and is associated with some disorders in the immune system. Unfortunately, the main reasons for its occurrence are still unknown today. Nevertheless, there is every reason to believe that in most cases the disease is transmitted along with genetic information from parents to the child.
In addition, it has been proven that most often the disease is associated with an increased sensitivity of the body to gluten, a substance found in cereal products. In some cases, people with dermatitis herpetiformis sufferfrom lipid metabolism disorders. Often the disease is associated with an allergy to foods containing a large amount of iodine. In some patients, skin lesions are associated with the development of oncological diseases.
In any case, the exacerbation of dermatitis can be triggered by many factors, including malnutrition, exposure to certain chemicals on the skin, reduced immune defenses, severe stress.
Main symptoms of Dühring's dermatitis
Most often, the period of exacerbation begins with severe itching. Only a day later, the first elements of a very characteristic blistering rash appear on the skin tissues. Moreover, the first vesicles appear on the extensor surfaces of the limbs, as well as on the face, scalp. Some patients with dermatitis herpetiformis also notice a rash on the sacrum and buttocks. Interestingly, the rash with this disease is symmetrical.
Small blisters on the skin, resembling a herpes rash, are filled with a clear or slightly cloudy liquid, sometimes blood impurities can be seen in it. As the disease progresses, the vesicles begin to burst, releasing their contents. Thus, dried crusts form on the surface of the skin.
Along with this, there is a violation of the normal functioning of the digestive system. The stool becomes more frequent, the feces acquire a characteristic gray color. Periods of exacerbation may be accompanied by a deterioration in well-being - increased fatigue, weakness, drowsiness,irritability.
Dermatitis herpetiformis: treatment
Unfortunately, it is impossible to get rid of the disease completely. But with the help of drugs, you can significantly alleviate the condition of a person during an exacerbation. As a rule, some sensitizing and antiseptic drugs are prescribed to begin with, in particular, Dapsone. Since the disease is to some extent associated with an allergic reaction, it is necessary to take antihistamines (Claritin, Tavegil). Of course, the affected areas of the skin must be kept clean and regularly treated with anti-inflammatory and wound healing drugs. In the most severe cases, the use of hormonal ointments is indicated.
People with dermatitis herpetiformis need to follow a proper diet. Cereals and foods containing iodine, in particular, seafood, oats, millet, wheat, etc., should be excluded from the diet. It is also recommended to avoid prolonged skin exposure to ultraviolet rays.
