What causes dermatitis herpetiformis?

What causes dermatitis herpetiformis?

Patients with dermatitis herpetiformis have an autoimmune reaction when they eat gluten. When gluten is digested, the immune system is triggered. Antibodies (IgA) are produced, which subsequently deposit in the skin. This causes the itchy, red bumps and blisters commonly seen in dermatitis herpetiformis.

Genetics play a role in dermatitis herpetiformis. You’re five percent more likely to get dermatitis herpetiformis and/or celiac disease if a first-degree relative has it. The genes closely associated with dermatitis herpetiformis are HLA-DQ2 and HLA-DQ8.