Treatment
Dapsone, an antibiotic, may help most patients.
A strict gluten-free diet will also be recommended to help control the disease. Sticking to this diet may remove the need for medications and prevent later complications.
Prognosis (Expectations)
The disease may be well controlled with treatment. Without treatment, there may be a significant risk of intestinal cancer.
Complications
Thyroid disease may be found in many patients with dermatitis herpetiformis. Patients are also more likely to develop certain cancers of the intestines.
Calling Your Health Care Provider
Call your health care provider if you have a rash that continues despite home treatment.
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Dermatitis herpetiformis : Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
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Dermatitis herpetiformis : Symptoms & Signs, Diagnosis & Tests
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Dermatitis herpetiformis : Treatment
Review Date : 4/15/2009
Reviewed By : Jonathan Kantor, MD, North Florida Dermatology Associates, Jacksonville, FL. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
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