Abstract
Dermatological Manifestations of Celiac Disease: a Literature Review
Department of General, Vascular, Endocrine and Transplant Surgery, Medical University of Warsaw, Poland
University Clinical Center of the Medical University of Warsaw, Central Clinical Hospital, Warsaw, Poland
Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Warsaw, Poland
Dermatol Rev/Przegl Dermatol 2026, 113, 28–33
Celiac disease is a chronic immune-mediated
disorder affecting genetically predisposed individuals and triggered
by dietary gluten. Although classically associated with
gastrointestinal manifestations, many patients present with
extraintestinal symptoms, which may delay diagnosis. The skin
represents one of the most common areas of extraintestinal
involvement. Dermatitis herpetiformis is the best-recognized
dermatological presentation of celiac disease; however, other
conditions such as psoriasis, alopecia areata, urticaria, and atopic
dermatitis have also been reported. These cutaneous manifestations
may precede gastrointestinal symptoms or occur in their absence,
highlighting the need for diagnostic awareness. The pathogenesis
involves immune dysregulation, deposition of IgA in the skin, and
shared inflammatory pathways. Evidence indicates that a gluten-free
diet improves not only intestinal pathology but also skin
manifestations. Therefore, screening for celiac disease should be
considered in patients presenting with unexplained or
treatment-resistant dermatoses. Early diagnosis and dietary
intervention may reduce complications and improve long-term outcomes,
underscoring the importance of recognizing cutaneous signs as
potential markers of celiac disease.
Keywords
dermatitis herpetiformis, celiac disease, psoriasis, alopecia areata, atopic dermatitis
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