Journal of cosmetic dermatology
-
Striae gravidarum is a form of scarring on the skin observed during pregnancy and can cause serious cosmetic problems. Striae gravidarum may be influenced by hormonal changes, although the etiology is not clear. The aim of this study was to investigate whether body mass index (BMI) and serum collagenase-2 levels in pregnant women are related to the development of striae gravidarum. ⋯ Pregnant women with striae gravidarum had increased serum collagenase-2 and BMI levels when compared to pregnant women without striae gravidarum and healthy controls (P < 0.05). The increase in serum collagenase-2 levels was related to the development of striae gravidarum alone, or secondary to BMI increase.