The rash usually occurs on the elbows, knees, and buttocks. Although people with DH do not usually have digestive symptoms, they often have the same intestinal damage as people with celiac disease. DH is diagnosed by a skin biopsy, which involves removing a tiny piece of skin near the rash and testing it for the IgA antibody. DH is treated with a gluten-free diet and medication to control the rash, such as dapsone or sulfapyridine. Drug treatment may last several years.
Celiac disease damages the small intestine and interferes with nutrient absorption.
Treatment is important because people with celiac disease could develop complications like cancer, osteoporosis, anemia, and seizures. A person with celiac disease may or may not have symptoms. Diagnosis involves blood tests and biopsy. Because celiac disease is hereditary, family members of a person with celiac disease may need to be tested. Celiac disease is treated by eliminating all gluten from the diet.