[Dermatitis herpetiformis. An update of the pathogenesis].

The multifactorial pathogenesis of dermatitis herpetiformis is reviewed in light of current experimental data. Genetic background, gluten consumption, and abnormal immune and autoimmune reactions are the most important pathogenetic factors, but other agents also participate in the disease development. The predisposing and inducing factors are summarized, while the pathophysiological steps leading to the development of skin symptoms are detailed.