For unknown reasons, they affect those with celiac disease more often than the general population.
As one outbreak heals, another might erupt.
Purple marks could remain for weeks.
Photographer, Basak Gurbuz Derman / Getty Images
However, they can also occur on the scalp, palms, soles of the feet, and genitals.
More research is needed to determine the cause and effect.
Eczema
This photo contains content that some people may find graphic or disturbing.
Vershinin / Getty Images
Reproduced with permission from DermNet New Zealandwww.dermnetnz.org2023.
Eczemais another inflammatory skin condition linked to gluten intolerance.
Eczema occurs most often in children, but adults also can have the skin condition.
DermNet/CC BY-NC-ND
Chronic Urticaria (Hives)
Research has linked chronicurticaria(hives) and celiac disease.
Adopting a gluten-free diet may help improve symptoms of chronic urticaria.
Hives can cause raised, itchy welts on the skin.
Reproduced with permission from © DermNet New Zealandwww.dermnetnz.org2023.
They may also screen you for celiac disease using a blood test.
However, a biopsy is only way to confirm a diagnosis of celiac disease or dermatitis herpetiformis.
There is no test to check for gluten intolerance.
DermNet/CC BY-NC-ND
It’s usually diagnosed after excluding other medical conditions.
You may, however, get tested for celiac disease or wheat allergy.
If they do, you may have a gluten intolerance.
DermNet/CC BY-NC-ND
Treatment
Agluten-free dietis the treatment of choice for those experiencing gluten-related skin problems.
This is especially true for dermatitis herpetiformis, which is linked to celiac disease.
However, it can take up to six months to see any skin improvements.
DermNet/CC BY-NC-ND
Can Touching Gluten Cause a Rash?
Summary
Celiac disease and gluten intolerance may be linked to certain types of skin conditions.
Dermatitis herpetiformis is a rash that people with celiac get when they eat gluten.
It presents as tiny, reddish-purple bumps.
A gluten-free diet is the only effective treatment for either condition.
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