A case of pemphigoid gestationis at a tertiary hospital in Gqeberha, South Africa

Abstract

Physiological skin changes during pregnancy include related skin structures such as glands, hair, nails and mucosa.
Almost all pregnant women develop increased pigmentation of their skin to a certain degree. Localized pigmentation of
certain areas of the body such as nipples, axillae, perineum, inner thigh and neck occurs more than other areas. These
physiological changes may involve pruritus. Therefore, pruritus in pregnancy may be physiological or may be related
to a fl are of disorders present prior pregnancy. Pruritus may also be related to pregnancy specifi c dermatoses. These
conditions among others include pemphigoid gestationis. This condition is associated with maternal morbidity and fetal
risks. Early recognition and treatment of the condition often results in favourable outcomes for both the mother and the
fetus.