What dietary modifications should I recommend to a patient diagnosed with dermatitis herpetiformis to manage their condition effectively?

Dietary modifications for a patient diagnosed with dermatitis herpetiformis:

Recommend strict adherence to a lifelong gluten-free diet, as dermatitis herpetiformis is a cutaneous manifestation of coeliac disease and responds to gluten exclusion.

Provide education about which foods contain gluten and suitable gluten-free alternatives, including gluten-free substitutes.

Advise on reading food labels carefully to avoid gluten-containing ingredients and on avoiding cross-contamination both at home and when eating out.

Encourage consultation with a dietitian who has specialist knowledge of coeliac disease to support dietary changes and assess for nutritional deficiencies.

Inform the patient about sources of information and support, such as Coeliac UK, which offers resources and local support groups.

Consider monitoring for nutritional deficiencies and the possible need for supplements such as calcium or vitamin D if dietary intake is insufficient.

Explain that gluten-free oats may be included in the diet but should be monitored for individual tolerance.