The irregular, pink, depressed linear marks seen over the lower abdomen and the thighs during pregnancy are known as ________.?

Appeared in: Punjab CHO - 2021

Explanation

The question describes irregular, pink, depressed linear marks on the lower abdomen and thighs, which is the classic presentation of striae gravidarum.
Striae gravidarum, commonly known as stretch marks, are caused by the stretching of the skin and the tearing of dermal elastic fibers during pregnancy.
They begin as reddish or pinkish lines (striae rubra) and later fade to silvery-white lines (striae albicans) after pregnancy.
According to Williams Obstetrics, these marks commonly develop on the abdomen, breasts, hips, and thighs after mid-pregnancy.

Option A: Linea nigra is a single, dark, vertical line of hyperpigmentation on the midline of the abdomen, not multiple irregular, pink, linear marks.
Option C: Chloasma gravidarum, or the "mask of pregnancy," refers to hyperpigmentation (dark patches) on the face, not linear marks on the abdomen and thighs.
Option D: Palmar erythema is a reddening of the palms of the hands. It does not involve linear marks on the abdomen or thighs.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Physiological skin changes during pregnancy as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Nurses play a key role in educating expectant mothers about these common and normal physiological skin changes, which can help alleviate anxiety.
While striae are primarily a cosmetic concern, nurses can advise on using moisturizers, creams, or oils (like almond oil) to help manage itching and skin dryness, although their effectiveness in preventing striae is not definitively proven.
It is important to reassure the patient that these marks are not harmful and usually fade significantly after delivery.

How to Approach the Question

This is a factual recall question testing knowledge of medical terminology for pregnancy-related changes.
First, carefully read the description provided in the question stem: 'irregular, pink, depressed linear marks' and their location 'lower abdomen and the thighs'.
Next, evaluate each option against this specific description.
Recall or deduce the definition of each term: 'linea nigra' (dark line), 'striae gravidarum' (stretch marks), 'chloasma' (facial pigmentation), and 'palmar erythema' (red palms).
Match the description in the question to the correct term. The description of pink, linear marks on the abdomen and thighs directly corresponds to striae gravidarum.

Concept Tested & Keywords

Concept Tested: Physiological skin changes during pregnancy
Stem keywords: irregular, pink, depressed linear marks, lower abdomen, thighs, pregnancy
Lead-in keywords: known as
Negative lead-in flag: false

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E6 Obstetrics Williams p. 40-59

Practise the full Punjab CHO - 2021

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