Dermatitis Herpetiformis Diet

The cause of DH is mainly an allergic reaction (called hypersensitivity) to foods (wheat and other grains) containing a protein called gluten. People with DH are usually found to have abnormalities of the intestinal lining identical to that of celiac disease (also called gluten-sensitive enteropathy or celiac sprue), a serious intestinal disorder also due to gluten sensitivity. Unlike celiac disease however, gastrointestinal symptoms may be mild or absent in DH.

Strict adherence to a lifelong gluten-free diet (GFD) can eliminate symptoms of DH and the intestinal abnormalities, as well as reduce or eliminate the need for medication in most people. However, an average of 8 to 12 months of dietary restriction may be necessary before symptoms resolve.

An increased incidence of lymphoma (cancer of the lymph tissue), and certain autoimmune and connective tissue disorders have also been reported in DH. Preliminary studies suggest a strict GFD of at least five years’ duration may reduce the increased risk of developing lymphoma in DH.

Not all people with DH improve on a GFD and/or medication. Preliminary studies indicate sensitivity to other dietary proteins may be involved. Some practitioners would recommend an elimination diet and/or allergy testing to check for other food sensitivities...