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Recurrent herpes gestationis with postpartum flare: a case report.
L V Baxi1, O P Kovilam, M H Collins
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032.
American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology
|March 1, 1991
Summary
Herpes gestationis (HG) can recur in pregnancy, sometimes with placental villitis. While one pregnancy resulted in stillbirth, subsequent pregnancies had favorable outcomes with corticosteroid treatment.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics
- Dermatology
- Immunology
Background:
- Herpes gestationis (HG), now known as pemphigoid gestationis, is a rare autoimmune blistering disease that occurs during pregnancy.
- It is characterized by intense pruritus and polymorphic eruptions, typically starting in the second or third trimester.
Observation:
- This case describes a patient with recurrent herpes gestationis in multiple pregnancies.
- The patient experienced a postpartum flare-up in her most recent pregnancy.
- Diagnosis was histopathologically confirmed via skin biopsy.
Findings:
- The first pregnancy resulted in a term stillbirth.
- Four subsequent pregnancies had favorable outcomes.
- Histopathologic examination of placentas from the last three pregnancies revealed varying grades of villositis.
Implications:
- Herpes gestationis may be associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes, including stillbirth.
- Villositis observed in placental examinations suggests a potential link between HG and placental pathology.
- Early diagnosis and management, including the use of oral corticosteroids, can lead to favorable pregnancy outcomes.