Management of gravid cholestasis

Diagnosis: Pruritus in a pregnant women with healthy skin is suggestive of gravid cholestasis. The diagnosis can only be retained after ruling out vir al or drug-induced hepatitis or gallbladder disease. The best markers are m aternal serum transaminase and bile acid levels. Fetal risk: The perinatal consequences of gravid cholestasis are minimal if reasonable premature delivery is accepted. Therapeutic options: Ursodes-oxycholic acid is an interesting therapeutic o ption if pruritis is untolerable or if the diagnosis is made early in pregn ancy. Injection of vitamin K prevents coagulation disorders.