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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between PUPPP and Cholestasis?

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PUPPP (Pruritic Urticarial Papules and Plaques of Pregnancy) and cholestasis (Intrahepatic Cholestasis of Pregnancy) are two distinct medical conditions that can occur during pregnancy, causing itching. However, they have different characteristics and causes:

PUPPP:

  • Causes an extremely irritating hive-like rash, typically occurring in the stretch marks on the abdomen.
  • Risk factors include being white, carrying a male fetus, being the first pregnancy, and carrying twins or triplets.
  • Caused by stretching and hormone changes during pregnancy.

Cholestasis:

  • Causes the slowing of bile flow through the biliary system.
  • Risk factors include personal or family history, history of liver damage or disease, being pregnant with multiple babies, and pregnancy at an older age (such as 35).
  • Caused by a problem with the liver that inhibits its ability to secrete bile.

In summary, while both PUPPP and cholestasis can cause itching during pregnancy, they are different medical conditions with distinct causes and characteristics. PUPPP is associated with a hive-like rash, while cholestasis is associated with the slowing of bile flow through the biliary system.

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  • What is the Difference Between PUPPP and Cholestasis?
  • Comparative Table: PUPPP vs Cholestasis

    • Comparative Table: PUPPP vs Cholestasis

    PUPPP (Pruritic Urticarial Papules and Plaques of Pregnancy) and cholestasis are two distinct medical conditions that can occur during pregnancy. They share some similarities, such as causing itching, but they have different characteristics and risk factors. Here is a table summarizing the differences between PUPPP and cholestasis:

    Characteristic PUPPP Cholestasis
    Definition A condition causing an extremely irritating hive-like rash. A condition causing the slowing of bile flow through the biliary system.
    Risk Factors White race, male fetus, first pregnancy, carrying twins or triplets. Personal or family history, liver damage or disease (hepatitis C, gallbladder stones), multiple babies, pregnancy at an older age (35+).
    Symptoms Itching, hive-like rash. Itching without a rash, may be accompanied by jaundice.
    Location Rash typically begins on the abdomen and spreads to the chest, legs, and arms. Pruritus usually begins on the palms and soles and may become more widespread.
    Treatment Topical steroids, oral antihistamines. Treatment varies depending on the severity of the condition, may include medications to improve bile flow or treat underlying liver disease.

    It is essential to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment if you experience symptoms of either PUPPP or cholestasis during pregnancy.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.