Dermatitis herpetiformis

What is Dermatitis herpetiformis?

A chronic autoimmune subepidermal bullous disease characterized by grouped pruritic lesions such as papules, urticarial plaques, erythema, and herpetiform vesiculae, with a predominantly symmetrical distribution on extensor surfaces of the elbows (90%), knees (30%), shoulders, buttocks, sacral region, and face of children and adults. Erosions, excoriations and hyperpigmentation usually follow. It may also appear as a consequence of gluten intolerance.

Other condition names

  • Duhring-Brocq disease

Inheritance type

Not applicable

Prevalence

  • Europe: 1-5 in 10,000
  • United States: 1-5 in 10,000

Age of Onset

  • All ages
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