Skin Eruptions Specific to Pregnancy: An Overview
September 2013
in “
The Obstetrician & Gynaecologist
”
TLDR Pregnancy can cause unique skin issues, some of which may risk the mother and baby's health and need careful treatment.
The document discusses skin changes and dermatoses unique to pregnancy, including increased pigmentation, stretch marks, vascular changes, gland activity alterations, and changes in hair and nails. It specifically focuses on four pregnancy dermatoses: atopic eruption of pregnancy, pemphigoid gestationis, polymorphic eruption of pregnancy, and intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy. The latter is particularly noted for its severe itching, potential for stillbirth, and a high recurrence risk of 45-90%, treatable with ursodeoxycholic acid. Atopic eruption is the most common, affecting 1 in 300 pregnancies and is benign. Polymorphic eruption occurs in 1 in 160 to 1 in 300 pregnancies and is self-limiting. Pemphigoid gestationis is rare, affecting 1 in 1700 to 1 in 50,000 pregnancies, and is an autoimmune condition. The document stresses the importance of accurate diagnosis and management of these conditions due to potential risks to the mother and fetus.
