dermatitis herpetiformis

I have had a recent outbreak of DH (Celiac), the first since I was diagnosed.(5Yrs) I'm 65 and  my country of origin is Scotland. I know Dapsone is the favoured choice. I have been taking an antihistamine and using a topical cream Vaseline Intensive Care. I have had the outbreak on my upper torso and part of my back. My health is fine otherwise. I think I ate something in a restaurant about 5 weeks ago. Should I ask my doctor for a course of Dapsone or should I persevere with antihistamines and lotions in the hope it will eventually go away? I have been completely clear until now.
   Thanks for your advice

[Dr Santos]

Hi,

It would help if you have yourself evaluated by your doctor and  depending on the severity of your lesions, he may prescribe you with dapsone. The good thing about dermatitis herpetiformis is that it may be well controlled with treatment.  Dapsone help most patients improve their symptoms. Because there can be side effects, the dose of Dapsone is usually started at a small amount, and then raised up over a few weeks until all symptoms are suppressed. Weekly or bi-weekly blood tests is also recommended for monitoring the side effects for the first three months.

A strict gluten-free diet is highly recommended to help control the disease. Sticking to this diet may remove the need for medications and prevent later complications.
Take care and keep us posted.