A case report pemphigoid gestational case, responding to systemic steroid therapy

In this case report, a rare case of Pemphigoid Gestationis at 33 weeks’ of gestation is presented and the related literature is briefly reviewed. A 21-year-old at 33 weeks’ of gestation admitted with the complain of itchy skin lesions on the abdomen, arms and legs. Dermatologic examination revealed urticaria papules and plaques in the abdomen, arms and legs, more intensely around the umbilicus, which range from 1-2 cm diameter to 4-5 cm diameter. Papulovesicular lesions and few erosions were observed especially in the hand and foot dorsals. Spongiosis on epidermis, intracellular and subepidermal bullae formation, edema on papillary architecture and inflammatory infiltrate composed of mononuclear cells and eosinophils around the perivascular ares of the upper dermis were seen in histological examination. Direct immunofluorescence of perilesional skin showed linear deposition of complement (C3) along the basement membrane zone. The preliminary diagnosis of pemphigoid gestationis was confirmed by histopathologic findings. Pemphigoid gestationis is a rare autoimmune bullous dermatosis that begins in the second or third trimester of pregnancy. Healing occurs weeks after birth. It occurs more severely in subsequent pregnancies. Its main treatment is systemic steroid and antihistamine administration. A multidisciplinary approach both in dermatological and gynecological terms is required for the diagnosis, treatment and course of the disease.

A review of literature of polymorphic eruption of pregnancy

<p class="abstract">Polymorphic eruption of pregnancy (PEP), also known as pruritic urticarial papules and plaques of pregnancy [PUPPP] is the most common of all the specific dermatoses of pregnancy. It is a benign, self-resolving, pruritic disorder of pregnancy, usually affecting primigravida during the last trimester of pregnancy or immediately postpartum. Its exact pathogenesis is still unknown, and its clinical presentations are variable. It may mimic many common dermatoses. In PEP, the histological findings are non-contributory and the laboratory results, including direct and indirect immunofluorescence are negative. Diagnosis mainly depends on clinical findings. Significant diagnostic confusion may occur with early lesions of pemphigoid gestationis, which needs to be differentiated from PEP as the former may have a bad fetal outcome. PEP is not associated with any fetal or maternal risk, and symptomatic treatment is all that is usually required. The awareness of this condition helps the physician recognize this entity, reassure the patient, and avoid unnecessary investigations. This review focuses on etiology, various clinical presentations, differential diagnosis, and management of PEP.</p>