Herpetiform dermatitis: causes, symptoms and treatment methods

Herpetiform dermatitis is a fairly common chronic disease, accompanied by the appearance of a characteristic skin rash. Statistical studies have shown that men of the age of 20 to 40 are more likely to have this disease.

Herpetiform dermatitis and its causes

Unfortunately, the causes of the development of such a disease to the end has not yet been studied. But to date, there are several basic theories. Some experts are inclined to think that this form of dermatitis is allergic, because in 90% of patients with this diagnosis there is also 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, for example, influenza or scarlet fever.

Recently, the theory of the autoimmune nature of this disease becomes more and more popular.

Herpetiform dermatitis: symptoms and clinical picture

As already mentioned, the disease is chronic - severe exacerbations with appropriate treatment are followed 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 at this stage the texture of the skin remains unchanged.

After about 12 hours, the first rashes begin to appear. Herpetiform dermatitis (pictured in the article) is accompanied by a very characteristic polymorphous rash, which consists of papules and vesicles, located asymmetrically. By the way, most often the disease affects the skin on the face, the scalp, elbows and knee folds, buttocks.

As the disease develops, the bubbles begin to burst, and their liquid contents form crusts. In addition, this form of dermatitis is accompanied by a disturbance of the digestive system - frequent defecations are observed, and the fecal masses acquire a grayish color and a liquid consistency.

In some cases, exacerbation of the disease is accompanied by deterioration of well-being - patients complain of weakness, increased fatigue. In addition, herpetiform dermatitis and frequent relapses can not but affect the mental state of the patient. A person becomes irritable or, conversely, falls into a depressed state.

Herpetiform dermatitis and treatment methods

It should be noted that therapy for such a disease is quite lengthy. Moreover, there is no medicine that can permanently rid itself of dermatitis. Nevertheless, the use of drugs in combination with diet will help avoid subsequent exacerbations.

Treatment includes the use of anti-inflammatory and antihistamines, which reduce itching and burning. In the most severe cases, doctors prescribe ointments with corticosteroids - these drugs really quickly remove 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 the gluten-free diet - you need to exclude from the diet cereals and products containing iodine in high concentrations.