<<Disclaimer: Verify this information before applying it to your situation.>>

Hi Everyone--

Here is the summary to my question re: the difference between DH and
herpes - is there a difference, and how can I get a biopsy when I can't
get in to see a dermatologist when lesions appear? As always, you have
all provided much information that is very helpful. Many thanks!

1)  Several people advised that a dermatologist who is experienced at
recognizing DH do the biopsy. The biopsy is taken of one of the blisters
or the skin at the edge of the lesion.

2)  An iodine patch can be used to bring about a blister. If one has DH,
a blister will form; if not, one does not have DH. A positive DH biopsy
will show IgA antibodies.

3)  Some dermatatoligists use an immunofluoresence method of
examination.

4)  DH usually appears where pressure is applied to the body, but can
appear anywhere.

5)  Herpes lesions can be identified by scrapings known as a Tzank smear
and should be easily distinguishable from DH.

6)  One person strongly advised not to have the biopsy taken from the
lesion, but from the edge or just near the lesion - it can be
misdiagnosed as herpes if taken from the lesion.

7)  One person was misdiagnosed from a biopsy, then finally received a
good diagnosis - said that stress can bring about an outbreak without
consuming gluten.

8)  One person said they were diagnosed from a punch biopsy performed on
an unerupted blister; they get them on their face.

9)  One person said the lab should be looking for IgA deposits in a
granular line at a specific location in the skin. If the biopsy is not
taken correctly you can get an incorrect negative. This is a positive
method of diagnoses.

10)  Chapter 20 in the book, "Coeliac Disease," edited by Michael Marsh
and published by Blackwell Scientific Publications describes in detail
how to take the biopsies. (The book is expensive, so finding it at a
library is advised)

11)  Dapsone can be taken for the DH, but many people said it has many
side effects and they have opted not to take it.

Hope those of you who wanted additional information find your answers
here....Ayn.