Dühring's dermatitis is a chronic disease accompanied by systemic damage to the body, in particular, skin tissues and intestinal mucosa. Patients with herpetiform dermatitis suffer from a periodic rash. Interestingly, a similar disease is more susceptible to men, although it occurs among women.
Herpetiform dermatitis of Dühring and its causes
Such a disease is autoimmune and is associated with some disorders in the functioning of the immune system. Unfortunately, the main causes of its occurrence are still unknown. Nevertheless, there is every reason to believe that in most cases the disease is transmitted along with genetic information from parents to the child.
In addition, it has been proven that most often the disease is associated with an increased sensitivity of the body to gluten - a substance contained in cereal products. In some cases, people with herpetiform dermatitis suffer from lipid metabolism disorders. Often, the disease is associated with an allergy to products containing large amounts of iodine. In some patients, the relationship of skin lesions with the development of cancer is traced.
In any case, exacerbation of dermatitis can be triggered by many factors, including malnutrition, exposure to the skin of certain chemicals, decreased immune defense, severe stress.
The main symptoms of dermatitis Dühring
Most often, the period of exacerbation begins with severe skin itching. Only a day later, the first elements of a very characteristic bubble rash appear on the skin tissues. Moreover, the first vesicles appear on the extensor surfaces of the limbs, as well as on the face, scalp. Some patients with herpetiform dermatitis also notice a rash in the sacrum and buttocks. Interestingly, the rash with a similar disease is symmetrical.
Small vesicles on the skin that resemble a rash during a cold sore are filled with a clear or slightly unclear liquid, sometimes blood impurities can be noticed in it. As the disease develops, the vesicles begin to burst, freeing their contents. Thus, dried crusts form on the surface of the skin.
Along with this, there is a violation of the normal functioning of the digestive system. The stool becomes more frequent, feces acquire a characteristic gray color. Periods of exacerbation may be accompanied by a deterioration in well-being - increased fatigue, weakness, drowsiness, irritability.
Herpetiform dermatitis: treatment
Unfortunately, it is completely impossible to get rid of the disease. But with the help of drugs, you can significantly alleviate the condition of a person during an exacerbation. As a rule, to begin with, some sensitizing and antiseptic drugs are prescribed, in particular, Dapson. Since the disease is more or less associated with an allergic reaction, it is necessary to take antihistamines (Claritin, Tavegil). Of course, the affected areas of the skin must be kept clean and regularly treated with anti-inflammatory and wound healing medicines. In the most severe cases, the use of hormonal ointments is indicated.
People with herpetiform dermatitis need to follow a proper diet. Cereals and products containing iodine, in particular, seafood, oats, millet, wheat, etc., should be excluded from the diet. It is also recommended to avoid prolonged exposure to the skin with ultraviolet rays.