• S Alberico, A Parin, S Mazza, E Grimaldi, C Strazzanti, and S Guaschino.
• Istituto di Ginecologia e Ostetricia, IRCCS Burlo Garofolo, Università degli Studi, Trieste.
• Minerva Ginecol. 1999 Jun 1; 51 (6): 207-12.

AimGravidic cholestasis is a syndrome that is usually manifested during the third trimester of pregnancy and regresses in puerperium. It is characterized by the onset of itch, with or without associated jaundice and alterations of hepatic functional parameters. Its incidence varies according to geographical area.MethodsA retrospective analysis was made regarding the frequency of this pathology in pregnant patients attending the Gynecology and Obstetrics Clinic of Trieste from 1-1-1980 to 31-7-1997. The epidemiological and clinical characteristics were studied relating to the course of pregnancy and neonatal outcome. Patients were identified on the basis of diagnosis on admittance and anamnestic and laboratory data, generalised itch and increased transaminase, biliary salts and alkaline phosphatase. Patients suffering form active-phase viral hepatitis were excluded, as were those in whom symptoms appeared after the start of alpha methyldopa administration.ResultsThe frequency of gravidic cholestasis in this series was 0.36%. No significant differences were recorded in terms of age, parity and weight increase in these patients compared to the general population of pregnant women. Birth was spontaneous in 66% and by cesarean section in 34%. The frequency of premature births was 12%. The Apgar score at 5 min was satisfactory in all neonates.ConclusionsCareful monitoring of pregnancy associated with suitable obstetric care enabled a zero rate neonatal and maternal mortality to be achieved.

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