How Do You Spell DERMATITIS HERPETIFORMIS?

1. Dermatitis herpetiformis, also known as Duhring's disease, is a rare and chronic autoimmune skin condition characterized by the presence of intensely itchy and blistering skin lesions. This condition is considered a manifestation of celiac disease and shares a strong association with gluten intolerance.

   The term "dermatitis" refers to any inflammation of the skin, while "herpetiformis" is derived from the word "herpes" and refers to the herpetiform appearance of the lesions, which resemble clustered, small, red, and fluid-filled blisters. These blisters are typically extremely itchy and are commonly found on the elbows, knees, scalp, back, and buttocks.

   Dermatitis herpetiformis is caused by an autoimmune reaction to the ingestion of gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. When individuals with this condition consume gluten, their immune system produces antibodies that mistakenly attack the skin, resulting in the characteristic blistering and itching.

   The diagnosis of dermatitis herpetiformis is often confirmed through a skin biopsy, which reveals the deposition of immunoglobulin A (IgA) within the skin layers. Treatment focuses on following a strict gluten-free diet, which usually leads to a gradual disappearance of the lesions and alleviation of symptoms. Additionally, medications such as dapsone may be prescribed to help control the itching and blistering.

   It is important for individuals diagnosed with dermatitis herpetiformis to adhere to a gluten-free diet, as long-term exposure to gluten can increase the risk of developing complications associated with celiac disease, such as intestinal damage and malabsorption of nutrients.

2. D. multiformis, pemphigus circinatus, Duhring's disease; a chronic disease of the skin marked by an itching eruption of no determinate form, though the lesions are apt to occur in groups; spontaneous healing may occur, but relapses are common.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for DERMATITIS HERPETIFORMIS

The word "Dermatitis Herpetiformis" has a Greek and Latin etymology.

The term "dermatitis" is derived from the Greek word "derma", meaning "skin", and the Latin suffix "-itis", which denotes inflammation. Therefore, "dermatitis" refers to inflammation of the skin.

The word "herpetiformis" comes from the Latin word "herpes", which means "a rash" or "an eruption", and the Latin suffix "-formis", which means "shape" or "form". Thus, "herpetiformis" implies a rash or eruption that resembles herpes in shape or form.

In combination, "Dermatitis Herpetiformis" refers to a chronic skin condition characterized by a rash that resembles the rash caused by herpes. It is worth noting that despite the name, Dermatitis Herpetiformis is not related to the herpes virus.