Gestational pemphigoid
Huilaja, L.; Mäkikallio, K.; Tasanen, K.
Duodecim; Laaketieteellinen Aikakauskirja 129(7): 731-738
2013
ISSN/ISBN: 0012-7183 PMID: 23720942 Document Number: 665853
Gestational pemphigoid is a rare pruritic bullous pregnancy associated dermatosis caused by autoantibodies against placental and dermal collagen XVII. Clinically, it is characterized by severe pruritus and blisters on abdominal skin and extremities. Immunofluorescence analysis of perilesional skin is used in the diagnostics and maternal serum BP180-levels reflect the disease activity. Topical steroids and antihistamins usually relieve mild symptoms, but in severe cases oral corticosteroid is the drug-of-choice. Spontaneous recovery is common after parturition but this disease typically recurs in the following pregnancies. Due to the associated risk of prematurity and fetal growth restriction, prenatal monitoring jointly by a dermatologist and an obstetrician is recommended.