Pruritic urticarial papules and plaques of pregnancy: polymorphic eruption of pregnancy (PUPPP)

Clin Dermatol. 2006 Mar-Apr;24(2):105-8. doi: 10.1016/j.clindermatol.2005.10.010.

Abstract

The most commonly diagnosed pruritic dermatosis of pregnancy has a confusing nomenclature. The most commonly term used in the United States is pruritic urticarial papules and plaques of pregnancy (PUPPP), and in Great Britain, since 1982, polymorphic eruption of pregnancy. The etiology of PUPPP is still unknown. Placental products, hormonal alterations, and damage to connective tissue with subsequent conversion of nonantigenic molecules to antigenic ones, have been proposed as possible causes. The maternal and fetal prognosis is excellent. Treatment consists of topical or oral corticosteroids. Delivery does not usually provide relief of symptoms.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Female
  • Humans
  • Pregnancy
  • Pregnancy Complications / physiopathology*
  • Pruritus / physiopathology*
  • Skin Diseases, Vesiculobullous / physiopathology*