Can a gluten allergy cause eczema all over the body?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am 52 years old. I have had an issue with topical dermatitis or eczema for about a year and a half. I have been using steroid creams and anti-itch creams, but it kept coming back on and off. Three weeks ago, I started getting hives, and two weeks ago, they covered most of my body from my neck to my ankles. As per my doctor’s advice, I started taking Prednisone and Cetirizine, but it did not stop. Now I am on Methylprednisolone and Cetirizine, and it seems to be getting a little better.

I cannot figure out any triggers, though; the itching and hives are almost unbearable. It does not seem to be a sugar allergy, but I am uncertain about a gluten allergy. I have had a previous allergy test that revealed nothing except an allergy to a few animals, which I do not have. I have never had a gluten test. My current medications are Amlodipine, Paroxetine, Bupropion, Famotidine, and Cetirizine. I have been on Methylprednisolone for the past four days.

Kindly help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have seen the attachments (attachment removed to protect patient identity). It must be difficult for you with the itching and rashes.

Can you upload the report of your allergy testing?
Why not go ahead and get the gluten testing?
It is a blood test and not as costly as the routine allergy panel. Secondly, when did you start Paroxetine and Bupropion?
Were they started recently?
Is there any correlation between their start and the development of the rashes?
When you take the steroid tablets and antihistamines, do you feel better?
Do the rashes subside then? Are there any triggers inside the house, such as insects or dust particles?
Have you had any changes in your place of residence?

Looking forward to your response in order to help you.

Thank you.

Answer 2

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

Plain gluten testing is not as costly as a complete allergy panel. I think you should check for gluten sensitivity.

Next, you need to take steroids for some time. I agree it is temporary, but you must use them for now. To relieve itching, you may try a stronger antihistamine. Levocetirizine is milder compared to Hydroxyzine and Pheniramine. Try taking Pheniramine maleate or Hydroxyzine once daily in the evening and Levocetirizine in the morning. You may need to use antihistamines for a longer duration.

Allergy testing should be done when you have not taken antihistamines for at least four to five days. I suggest you apply Histocalamine (Diphenhydramine and Calamine) lotion to the affected area twice daily after washing off the previous application. I suggest you get a skin specialist (dermatologist) consultation for a second opinion.

You can always come back and reach me.

Thank you for consulting me.