Skin disease in pregnancy: The approach of the obstetric medicine physician

This review presents the approach of the obstetric medicine physician to skin disease in pregnancy. It elaborates on common skin-related problems during gestation, such as pruritus, with or without eruption, and drug eruptions. An algorithmic approach to the differential diagnosis of pruritus in pregnancy is outlined. Also, the review focuses on how to diagnose promptly endocrinopathies presenting with skin manifestations in pregnancy, such as Addison disease, diabetes, and hyperthyroidism. The prompt diagnosis of endocrine disorders can help to optimize management and improve outcomes. Finally, the authors outline their approach to minimizing maternal and fetal risks associated with skin disease. The risks associated with obstetric cholestasis, pemphigoid gestationis, and impetigo herpetiformis are discussed. Prompt diagnosis helps to minimize the serious risks associated with certain infections. Preconception counseling and a multidisciplinary approach are crucial to preventing risks associated with rheumatic skin disease and genodermatoses. Challenging, real-life obstetric medicine cases are discussed.