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Updated: May 30, 2026
10:27
Recognition of Epidermal Transglutaminase by IgA and Tissue Transglutaminase 2 Antibodies in a Rare Case of Rhesus Dermatitis
Published on: December 15, 2011
Dermatitis herpetiformis presenting as digital petechiae
Julia Heinlin1, Birgit Knoppke, Elisabeth Kohl
1Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany.
Pediatric Dermatology
|August 19, 2011
Summary
Dermatitis herpetiformis can cause painful petechiae on fingers and feet in young patients. A gluten-free diet and dapsone effectively managed symptoms in a 15-year-old.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Gastroenterology
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Recurrent painful petechiae on extremities can present diagnostic challenges, particularly in pediatric cases.
- Differential diagnoses for palmar and plantar petechiae include infectious, autoimmune, and hematologic conditions.
Observation:
- A 15-year-old female presented with a 6-month history of recurrent, painful petechiae on her fingers and feet.
- She also reported a history of recurrent tonsillitis, urinary tract infections, and a transient bilateral scotoma.
- Initial investigations for septic emboli were negative.
Findings:
- Histopathology, immunofluorescence studies, and esophagogastroduodenoscopy confirmed the diagnosis of dermatitis herpetiformis.
- The patient's symptoms were attributed to an autoimmune reaction triggered by gluten.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of considering dermatitis herpetiformis in the differential diagnosis of palmar and plantar petechiae in children and young adults.
- Early diagnosis and management with a gluten-free diet and dapsone can lead to symptom resolution and improved quality of life.
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