What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• Atopic Dermatitis of Pregnancy
• Papular Dermatitis of Pregnancy
• Prurigo Gestationis

What is Prurigo of Pregnancy? (Definition/Background Information)

• Prurigo of Pregnancy is a benign skin condition that results in itchy rashes on the body and limbs during pregnancy, particularly in the second or third trimester
• The skin condition is also known as Atopic Dermatitis of Pregnancy. The rashes are typically present on the arms and legs, often in clusters
• The cause of Prurigo of Pregnancy is unknown. Also, no predisposing factors that may result in the condition have been reported
• Prurigo of Pregnancy is a benign condition and there is no cure for the same. However, the symptoms may be reduced through the application of moisturizing creams and light therapy, if necessary
• The prognosis of Prurigo of Pregnancy is good in a majority of cases. It is known to disappear in a few weeks or so following delivery of the baby

Who gets Prurigo of Pregnancy? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Prurigo of Pregnancy may occur during any stage of pregnancy; although, the majority are noted in the second and third trimester i.e., between 4-9 months of pregnancy
• The condition affects about 1 in 300 expectant mothers
• Individuals of all racial and ethnic background can be affected

What are the Risk Factors for Prurigo of Pregnancy? (Predisposing Factors)

• Currently, no risk factors have been identified for Prurigo of Pregnancy

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases one’s chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Prurigo of Pregnancy? (Etiology)

• The cause of Prurigo of Pregnancy is not well-established. It may be probably caused by an abnormal immune system reaction in the body
• The condition is not caused by what the expectant mother does or does not do, either prior to or during pregnancy

Prurigo of Pregnancy is non-contagious and it cannot be transmitted from one individual to another.

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Prurigo of Pregnancy?

The signs and symptoms of Prurigo of Pregnancy include:

• Presence of itchy red skin rashes on the upper and lower limbs and the trunk (chest and back)
• The lesions consist of small papules that are often clustered (seen in groups)
• The individual papules may measure about 5 mm to 1 cm in size
• Over time, the papules may ooze fluid and form crusts

How is Prurigo of Pregnancy Diagnosed?

A diagnosis of Prurigo of Pregnancy may involve the following:

• A thorough medical history assessment and complete physical examination
• Assessment of the signs and symptoms
• Dermoscopy: It is a diagnostic tool where a dermatologist examines the skin using a special magnified lens
• Wood’s lamp examination: In this procedure, the healthcare provider examines the skin using ultraviolet light. It is performed to examine the change in skin pigmentation
• Skin biopsy: A skin biopsy is performed and sent to a laboratory for a pathological examination. The pathologist examines the biopsy under a microscope. After putting together clinical findings, special studies on tissues (if needed) and with microscope findings, the pathologist arrives at a definitive diagnosis
• Blood tests to rule out changes in liver enzymes

Note: Usually, a skin biopsy is not required to diagnose Prurigo of Pregnancy.

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Prurigo of Pregnancy?

The complications of Prurigo of Pregnancy may include:

• Itchiness may cause difficulty in sleeping
• Secondary bacterial and fungal infections: The condition may providing a suitable environment for bacteria and fungi to grow and thrive, resulting in secondary infections
• Cosmetic issues resulting in emotional stress in some individuals
• Recurrence of the skin rashes in subsequent pregnancy, which may occur in rare cases

How is Prurigo of Pregnancy Treated?

It is very important to note that the condition should be carefully evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider, before starting and/or performing any treatment. This is because the treatment may have the potential to affect the developing fetus and the guidance of a healthcare expert is crucial.

There is no cure for Prurigo of Pregnancy. The treatment is usually undertaken based on the specific set of skin symptoms noted and under the recommendation of a professional healthcare provider. The treatment measures may include:

• Use of moisturizing creams and topical steroids
• Phototherapy or light therapy
• If the symptoms are severe, then systemic steroids may be prescribed for a short duration
• In some individuals, anti-histamine therapy may be recommended

How can Prurigo of Pregnancy be Prevented?

Currently, there are no known methods to prevent the occurrence of Prurigo of Pregnancy. However, one may lower the risk for the skin condition by considering the following factors:

• Treating any underlying conditions early and adequately
• A careful and periodic monitoring of the pregnancy is advised and recommended
• Inform your physician if you are allergic to certain medications or foods

What is the Prognosis of Prurigo of Pregnancy? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

The prognosis for Prurigo of Pregnancy is usually good, in a vast majority of cases. Also, the condition is not known affect the developing fetus.

• In many, it resolves a few weeks after delivery. The rash usually disappears after the baby is born and the symptoms are known to subside
• Usually, Prurigo of Pregnancy does not recur in subsequent pregnancy. But, in some cases, it may appear again

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Prurigo of Pregnancy:

• Cleaning the skin too hard with strong chemicals or soaps may aggravate the skin condition. Care must be taken avoid strong soaps and chemicals that could potentially worsen the condition
• The presence of dirt on the body is not a causative factor for the condition. However, it helps to be clean and hygienic, which may help the condition from getting worse