What is the increased pigmentation on the face of a pregnant woman during pregnancy called?

MP CHO -2021 (Shift 1st)

Obstetrics & Gynaecology

Easy

Appeared in: MP CHO -2021 (Shift 1st)

Explanation

Chloasma, also known as melasma gravidarum or the "mask of pregnancy," is the correct term for the blotchy, brownish hyperpigmentation that appears on the face during pregnancy.
This skin change is caused by increased levels of hormones, specifically estrogen, progesterone, and melanocyte-stimulating hormone (MSH), which stimulate excess melanin production.
The pigmentation typically appears on the cheeks, forehead, and nose.
Chloasma is a benign condition and usually fades on its own within a few months after childbirth.

Option A: Linea nigra is incorrect because it refers to the dark vertical line that develops on the midline of the abdomen during pregnancy, not on the face.
Option B: Striae gravidarum are stretch marks. They are reddish or purplish streaks that appear on the abdomen, breasts, and thighs due to the stretching of the skin, not facial pigmentation.
Option D: Caput medusae is not a normal physiological change of pregnancy. It describes a network of dilated veins radiating from the umbilicus, which is a sign of severe portal hypertension and liver disease.

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 and reassuring pregnant patients about common skin changes like chloasma, explaining that it is a temporary and harmless condition.
A crucial nursing intervention is to advise patients on sun protection, as ultraviolet (UV) exposure can significantly worsen the pigmentation. This includes recommending daily use of broad-spectrum sunscreen and wearing protective clothing like wide-brimmed hats.
What if? If the patient's chloasma persists for more than a year postpartum and causes significant distress, the nurse should recommend a consultation with a dermatologist to discuss treatment options, such as topical lightening agents.

How to Approach the Question

First, carefully read the question to identify the key descriptors: "increased pigmentation" and "on the face" of a "pregnant woman."
Next, analyze each option based on your knowledge of medical terminology related to pregnancy.
Recall or look up the definition of each term. Chloasma refers to facial pigmentation. Linea nigra is an abdominal line. Striae gravidarum are stretch marks. Caput medusae relates to portal hypertension.
Compare the definitions to the question's key descriptors.
Select the option that directly matches the description of increased pigmentation on the face during pregnancy.

Concept Tested & Keywords

Concept Tested: Physiological skin changes during pregnancy
Stem keywords: increased pigmentation, face, pregnant woman, pregnancy
Lead-in keywords: What is
Clinical cues: Age/sex group narrows the expected diagnosis, intervention, or normal reference range.
Negative lead-in flag: false

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E6 Obstetrics Williams p. 40-59

E6 Medicine Davidson Principles Practice 24e p. 1290-1292