Question About Symmetry

[kaique]

Hi there,

This is my first post on this forum! I am currently awaiting blood test results for Celiac. My daughter was diagnosed with it over a year ago and I've been putting off getting the screen for reasons I'm not exactly sure of - mostly because I was convinced I didn't have it. However, about 2 months ago I developed a rash. It started on my ankles, was SEVERELY, UNBEARABLY itchy, and has left purple scars. Since then, patches have appeared all over my body (but never as bad as the first ones on my ankles). My question is, if it's DH, does the rash always have to be symmetrical? Mine is loosely symmetrical - for example, it was on the front of my left ankle but the back of my right ankle, it's appeared on both legs and arms but not exactly in the same places, and while one elbow has developed it, so far, the other hasn't. It's also on the back of my neck.

In every other way, it seems to resemble what I've read about DH, so I was just wondering how exact the symmetry was supposed to be.

Thanks for any help you can give!

[RiceGuy]

Your suspicions may very well be correct, as DH is not always symmetrical. But even if it isn't DH, it doesn't mean you aren't sensitive to gluten. Many members here have and do experience odd rashes, blisters, and other manifestations on the skin.

Welcome to the board!

[Celiactapper]

I personally don't believe enough studies have been done of DH to establish whether or not it's always symmetrical. I can only say from a personal point of view that my son and I (both celiacs) get DH on our faces and necks....and then I also get it on the sole of my right foot and on my left hand, while my son gets it on the sole of his left foot and on his right hand. Weird....but true. Obviously, the idea that DH must absolutely be symmetrical can be easily contradicted.