Dermatitis herpetiformis is a fairly common chronic disease, accompanied by the appearance of a characteristic skin rash. Statistical studies have shown that men aged 20 to 40 are more prone to such a disease.
Dermatitis herpetiformis and its causes
Unfortunately, the reasons for the development of such a disease have not yet been fully studied. But today there are several main theories. Some experts are inclined to think that this form of dermatitis has an allergic origin, because 90% of patients with a similar diagnosis also have an increased sensitivity to gluten.
Some researchers associate the development of this chronic disease with infections, since quite often the first exacerbation occurs against the background of an infectious disease, such as influenza or scarlet fever.
Recently, the theory of the autoimmune nature of this disease has become increasingly popular.
Dermatitis herpetiformis: symptoms and clinical picture
As already mentioned, the disease is chronic - severe exacerbations with appropriate treatment are replaced by periods of relative well-being of the body. As a rule, the disease begins with severe itching. Some patients complain of tingling and burning, although the texture of the skin remains unchanged at this stage.
After about 12 hours, the first rashes begin to appear. Dermatitis herpetiformis (photos are presented in the article) is accompanied by a very characteristic polymorphic rash, which consists of papules and vesicles arranged asymmetrically. By the way, most often the disease affects the skin on the face, scalp, elbows and knees, buttocks.
As the disease progresses, the blisters begin to burst, and their liquid contents form crusts. In addition, this form of dermatitis is accompanied by disruption of the digestive system - frequent bowel movements are observed, and the feces become grayish in color and have a liquid consistency.
In some cases, the exacerbation of the disease is accompanied by a deterioration in he alth - patients complain of weakness, increased fatigue. In addition, dermatitis herpetiformis and its frequent recurrences cannot but affect the mental state of the patient. The person becomes irritable or, conversely, falls into a depressed state.
Dermatitis herpetiformis and treatments
It should be noted that therapy for such a disease is quitelong. Moreover, there is no medicine that can permanently get rid of dermatitis. Nevertheless, the use of drugs in combination with a diet will help to avoid subsequent exacerbations.
Treatment includes taking anti-inflammatory and antihistamines to reduce itching and burning. In the most severe cases, doctors prescribe corticosteroid ointments - such drugs really quickly relieve inflammation and redness of the skin. It will be useful to take immunomodulators and vitamins, as these drugs regulate the activity of the immune system. And, of course, patients are advised to strictly adhere to a gluten-free diet - cereals and foods containing high concentrations of iodine should be excluded from the diet.
