This may be applicable in some patients when a biopsy is needed and no blisters are available. The indirect immunofluorescence test shows that the serum of a patient contains specific antibodies that bind to different areas of the epithelium. Traditionally this biopsy is obtained from the buttocks. If no outbreaks are observed in this area, the biopsy is recommended for another area where the itching is observed. Dapsone changes the life span of red blood cells from an average of 120 days to 30 days.
Dapsone is known for possible hematologic changes as a common side effect.
He stated that all patients with DH have some degree of enteropathy, even though less than 1 in 10 patients with DH have GI symptoms. Dr. Fry also said 40 percent of DH relatives have gluten-sensitive enteropathy. He went on to say that the GF diet can take 6 months to two years to get healing of DH, and a relapse of the DH rash may take 2 to 12 weeks to occur after someone eats gluten. Total disappearance of IGA skin deposits may take up to 7 years after a GF diet is started. Dr. Reunala from Finland talked about associated diseases.