The brownish black pigmented area in the midline stretching from xiphisternum to symphysis pubis during pregnancy is?

Appeared in: DSSSB - 28 August 2019 (Shift-1)

Explanation

The question describes a brownish-black pigmented line running down the midline of the abdomen from the xiphoid process to the pubic symphysis.
This specific presentation is the textbook definition of Linea nigra, which means 'black line' in Latin.
It is caused by an increase in melanocyte-stimulating hormone during pregnancy, which leads to hyperpigmentation of the linea alba (a line of connective tissue).
This change is a normal, physiological part of pregnancy and typically fades in the months following delivery.

Option B: Striae albicans are not pigmented; they are silvery-white, scar-like lines that represent healed stretch marks.
Option C: Striae gravidarum are stretch marks that appear during pregnancy, but they are typically reddish or purplish, not a single brownish-black midline.
Option D: Chloasma gravidarum, also known as melasma or the 'mask of pregnancy,' is hyperpigmentation that occurs on the face (cheeks, forehead, nose), not a vertical line on the abdomen.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Integumentary System Changes During Pregnancy as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Nurses play a crucial role in educating expectant mothers about the normal physiological skin changes during pregnancy.
It is important to reassure the patient that Linea nigra is a benign condition and will likely fade after childbirth, which can alleviate anxiety about body changes.
Differentiating these normal changes from pathological skin conditions is a key nursing assessment skill. Any pigmented lesion that is irregular, itchy, growing rapidly, or has other concerning features should be reported for further dermatological evaluation.

How to Approach the Question

This is a factual recall question that tests your knowledge of medical terminology related to pregnancy.
First, break down the key descriptors in the question: 'brownish black pigmented area', 'midline', 'stretching from xiphisternum to symphysis pubis', and 'during pregnancy'.
Evaluate each option against these descriptors.
Recall the definition of 'Linea nigra' (black line), which perfectly matches the description of a pigmented line on the abdomen.
Eliminate 'Striae gravidarum' and 'Striae albicans' as they refer to stretch marks, which are streaks or lines, not a single midline pigmentation.
Eliminate 'Chloasma gravidarum' as this refers to pigmentation on the face (the 'mask of pregnancy'), not the abdomen.

Concept Tested & Keywords

Concept Tested: Integumentary System Changes During Pregnancy
Stem keywords: brownish black pigmented area, midline, xiphisternum, symphysis pubis, pregnancy
Lead-in keywords: is
Negative lead-in flag: false

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E6 Obstetrics Williams p. 40-59

Practise the full DSSSB - 28 August 2019 (Shift-1)

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.