ABSTRACT
The shift from predominantly T-helper (Th)1 lymphocyte profile to a Th2 profile may result in improvement in skin conditions that are Th1 driven such as psoriasis and exacerbation of Th2-driven diseases such as atopic eczema. Diagnosed by skin biopsy and direct immunofluorescence, which shows complement deposition at the basement membrane zone. Intensely pruritic, urticated erythematous papules and plaques, target lesions and annular wheals. The commoner precipitating causes should be sought (e.g. drugs [antibiotics] and viral [particularly herpes simplex virus] infections) before attributing the eruption to pregnancy alone. A Cochrane review showed no association between maternal use of topical corticosteroids of any potency and an increase in congenital abnormality, preterm delivery, fetal death or low Apgar score. Eczematous changes at typical atopic sites (face, neck, flexural surfaces of limbs) or papular lesions on trunk and limbs or prurigo nodules on the shins and arms. Diagnosed by skin biopsy and direct immunofluorescence, which shows complement deposition at the basement membrane zone.
