What is dermatitis herpetiformis?

Dermatitis herpetiformis is a long-term (chronic), recurring skin rash with many small fluid-filled skin sores (blisterlike sores). After healing, the sores often leave discolored areas and sometimes scarring.

Dermatitis herpetiformis is a sign of gluten sensitivity. Treatment often involves a strict gluten-free diet and in some cases, a medicine such as dapsone. Almost all people with dermatitis herpetiformis also have celiac disease, which interferes with a person's ability to eat foods containing gluten—a form of protein found in some grains (notably wheat, barley, and rye). Celiac disease is considered a type of immune disorder and is treated by adopting a strict gluten-free diet.