Gastrointestinal symptoms at diagnosis and during long‐term gluten‐free diet treatment in dermatitis herpetiformis patients.

This article explores the presence of gastrointestinal symptoms in patients with dermatitis herpetiformis (DH), a skin condition linked to coeliac disease. Contrary to previous beliefs, recent evidence suggests that gastrointestinal symptoms are not uncommon in DH. The study reveals that 41% of DH patients experience gastrointestinal symptoms at diagnosis, and 14% continue to have persistent symptoms even after following a gluten-free diet for an average of 25 years. These patients tend to have more long-term illnesses, are more likely to smoke, and have a lower quality of life compared to those without persistent symptoms. The findings emphasize the importance of addressing gastrointestinal symptoms in DH patients, as they can significantly impact their quality of life. [Extracted from the article]