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Dermatitis herpetiformis

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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

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Dermatitis herpetiformis

Definition:

Dermatitis herpetiformis is a chronic, extremely itchy rash consisting of bumps and blisters. Dermatitis herpetiformis is linked to sensitivity of the intestine to gluten in the diet (celiac sprue).

Alternative Names:

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Duhring's disease

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

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

Though the cause of the rash is unknown, dermatitis herpetiformis is frequently associated with gluten (a protein found in cereals) sensitivity in the small bowel.

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