Biography
Biography: Aziz Abaid Aziz Al-Sohaimi
Abstract
Polymorphic eruption of pregnancy is an itchy, bumpy rash that starts in the stretch marks of the abdomen in the last 3 months of pregnancy then clears with delivery. It is also called PUPPP or Pruritic Urticarial Papules and Plaques of Pregnancy. Polymorphic eruption of pregnancy is thought to be related to stretching of the skin on the abdomen. Somehow the rash develops as a sort of "allergy" to the stretch marks and spreads elsewhere on the body. Supporting the stretch mark theory are the following observations: Most cases begin in the last 3 months. Polymorphic eruption of pregnancy is most common in a first pregnancy, when the abdomen is tightest. The rash usually starts around the umbilicus where stretching of the abdomen is greatest. On average, patients with polymorphic eruption of pregnancy have greater weight gain, babies that are heavier than normal and an increased chance of having twins. Small, pink, raised spots (papules) appear in the stretch marks around the umbilicus. There is often a pale halo around the papules. PUPPP is very itchy (pruritic) and patients find it difficult to sleep at night. Treatment of polymorphic eruption of pregnancy: Emollients (moisturizers) applied liberally and frequently as required. Topical steroids applied thinly twice daily to the red itchy patches. Antihistamines - conventional antihistamine tablets appear safe in late pregnancy.