Impetigo Herpetiformis Is Generalized Pustular Psoriasis of Pregnancy

IL36RN mutation status is a possible predictor of IH.

Pregnant women can suddenly develop a severe generalized pustular eruption resembling generalized pustular psoriasis (GPP). Called impetigo herpetiformis (IH), this disease of pregnancy can be life threatening and can be associated with placental insufficiency and electrolyte disturbances.

Authors of a recent case study reported two primiparous women with IH. A 28-year-old patient had had GPP from age 8 years to 18 years. The other patient, age 23 years, had never had GPP or IH. The eruptions were typical for GPP/IH and were associated with spongiform pustules, fever, leukocytosis, and negative cultures for bacterial pathogens. Because GPP occurs in people with homozygous or compound heterozygous mutations of IL36RN, the patients' DNA sample…

Reviewing Author

Mark V. Dahl, MD

Disclosures

Consultant / Advisory board Ulthera, Inc.; AuBio LifeSciences, LLC; Paris Therapeutics

Equity Elorac, Inc.; Makucell, Inc.; Paris Therapeutics

Editorial boards UpToDate

Leadership positions in professional societiesNational Rosacea Society (Chairman, Medical Board)