[Risks of intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy]

Abstract

Intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP) is defined as pruritus during pregnancy in the absence of primary skin lesions, combined with an increase in serum total bile salts and/or abnormal serum liver tests. This article provides an insight into the diagnostic and therapeutic considerations by presenting two cases. ICP usually presents around 34 weeks of gestation, but can be present early in pregnancy as described in a 32-year-old patient pregnant after in-vitro fertilization. DNA analysis showed a mutation in the ABCB4 gene, causing MDR3 deficiency. Ursodeoxycholic acid treatment seems to alleviate maternal pruritus and possibly reduces perinatal risks related to the severe form of ICP, defined as fasted serum bile salt levels of ≥ 40 μmol/l at any point during the pregnancy. Short-term rifampicin treatment can be considered in patients with persistent pruritus. Induction of labour is advised only after 37 weeks of gestation in patients with severe ICP.