Pruritic urticarial papules and plaques of pregnancy

Pruritic urticarial papules and plaques of pregnancy is a self-limiting disease generally seen in the first pregnancy during the third trimester. Lesions are frequently present centrally and are intensely pruritic. Mucous membranes are usually not involved. Histology shows a normal epidermis with mild perivascular lymphohistiocytic infiltrate. Blood vessels, cutaneous appendages, and subcutaneous tissue are normal. Immunofluorescence studies are negative. A review of the reported cases suggests that there is no increased incidence of fetal mortality or congenital malformations and that recurrences do not occur in most cases. Etiology is unknown. Treatment should be directed toward symptomatic relief only.