A cross-sectional study of cutaneous changes during pregnancy in a tertiary care hospital in Northern India

Authors

  • Azra Ferheen Chaudhary Dermatology, School of Medical Sciences and Research, Sharda University, Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India http://orcid.org/0000-0001-7497-5212
  • Shitij Goel Dermatology, School of Medical Sciences and Research, Sharda University, Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India
  • Archana Mehta Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medical Sciences and Research, Sharda University, Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18203/issn.2455-4529.IntJResDermatol20221199

Keywords:

Dermatoses of pregnancy, Pigmentary changes, Dermatological manifestations

Abstract

Background: Women undergo profound changes during pregnancy, making them susceptible to a number of dermatological manifestations. We aimed to determine the frequency and pattern of skin changes during pregnancy.

Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted among 400 pregnant women presenting to the Outpatient department of a Tertiary Care Centre in Northern India.

Results: A total of 400 pregnant mothers fulfilling inclusion criteria were included. The pigmentary changes were the most common physiological change seen in 90.8% (n=363) of pregnant women. The most common pigmentary change was secondary areola seen in 83% (n=332) women, followed by linea nigra seen in 37.5% (n=150) pregnant women. Vascular changes were seen in 13% (n=52), non- pitting pedal edema being the most common 10.25% (n=41). Connective tissue changes were seen in 62.25% (n=249) of pregnant women, striae gravidarum being the most common (n=242). The most common specific dermatoses of pregnancy was atopic eruption of pregnancy seen in 4.25% (n=17), followed by intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (n= 14). 3 cases (0.75%) of Polymorphic eruption of pregnancy were seen. 1 case of Pemphigoid gestationis was seen in the third trimester. Approximately 17% of pregnant women were positive for infections among which fungal infection was the most common infection affecting pregnant women, seen in 11.2% (n=45) participants.

Conclusions: The dermatoses of pregnancy are common and have a range of dermatological manifestations apart from their specific pattern; in order to manage and treat them appropriately, proper attention needs to be given.

Author Biographies

Azra Ferheen Chaudhary, Dermatology, School of Medical Sciences and Research, Sharda University, Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India

Dermatology Resident

Shitij Goel, Dermatology, School of Medical Sciences and Research, Sharda University, Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India

Professor

Archana Mehta, Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medical Sciences and Research, Sharda University, Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India

Professor

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Published

2022-04-26

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Section

Original Research Articles