Herpes gestationis

Herpes gestationis is a bullous disease that can develop in association with pregnancy, choriocarcinoma, or other similar tumors. Typically beginning after 9 weeks gestation, the eruption clears postpartum.
Subsequent pregnancies are likely to produce an earlier onset than the preceding pregnancy.
Lesions consist of urticarial plaques and annular wheals, often surmounted by multiple small tense vesicles.
Severe pruritus is common.

Treatment:

• Topical potent corticosteroids are helpful in mild cases.
• In more severe cases, prednisone 50 mg/day will usually produce an excellent response. Such treatment should be continued for at least one month postpartum.
• Other immunosuppressive agents should be avoided in pregnancy.

Back to Dermatology Glossary - H Index   |   Back to Dermatology Glossary Index