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Arch Dermatol. 2004;140:353-358.

	Since this article does not have an abstract, we have provided the first 150 words of the full text and any section headings.

Diagnosis: Localized facial dermatitis herpetiformis (DH).

MICROSCOPIC AND LABORATORY FINDINGS AND CLINICAL COURSE

Direct immunofluorescence of the biopsy specimen from nonlesional skin revealed granular deposition of IgA concentrated at the dermoepidermal junction. The patient's hemoglobin levels had decreased over the past year to as low as 10.3 g/dL (reference range, 12.0-15.5 g/dL), with a hematocrit of 34% (reference range, 35%-45%) and a ferritin value of less than 2 ng/mL (reference range, 15-290 ng/mL). Serum chemistry studies and liver function tests revealed no abnormalities. Antigliadin IgG and IgA antibody levels were markedly elevated.

The patient's initial attempts to minimize the gluten in her diet had no effect on her dermatitis. After the diagnosis of DH was confirmed, dapsone therapy (100 mg/d) was initiated. Within 36 hours of the first dose, the pruritus and burning sensation completely resolved. The patient continues to do well with dapsone therapy and plans to follow a gluten-free diet.

DISCUSSION

Dermatitis herpetiformis was first described by Duhring¹ in 1884. Since then, . . . [Full Text of this Article]

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Arch Dermatol. 2004;140(3):353-358.
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