Dermatitis Herpetiformis - Symptom, Treatment and cause of Dermatitis Herpetiformis

DESCRIPTION: An uncommon blistering itch that occurs on the elbows,knees and backside.

CAUSE: Several different causes, including gluten which is found in manycereals.

SYMPTOMS: Small, intensely itchy, fluid-filled blisters on red, inflamedskin. Often appears scratched and bleeding because of the almostirresistible itching.

INVESTIGATIONS: Diagnosed by biopsy of a skin blister.

TREATMENT: Avoiding gluten containing cereals, or using very potentsteroid creams or tablets.

COMPLICATIONS: Often persistent.

PROGNOSIS: Can be cured by avoiding any cause that can be discovered,otherwise control may be difficult.