Dermatitis herpetiformis is strongly associated with HLA-DQ2 or HLA-DQ8 haplotypes. What is the first-line treatment for this condition?
- A Dapsone ✓
- B Systemic corticosteroids
- C Rituximab
- D Methotrexate
Correct answer: A. Dapsone
Explanation
Dapsone is the first-line treatment for dermatitis herpetiformis, producing rapid relief of pruritus within 24 to 48 hours. B gluten-free diet is also essential but takes months to show clinical effect. Dapsone acts by inhibiting neutrophil chemotaxis and function. Systemic steroids, rituximab, and methotrexate are not first-line for DH; they are used in pemphigus or pemphigoid.
Reference: Robbins and Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease, 10th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
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