What causes Intrahepatic Cholestasis of Pregnancy?
There is a defect in the excretion of bile from the liver resulting in rising of bile acids in the blood. The exact mechanism is still not fully understood, but current research suggests genetic, hormonal and environmental factors. Recently a particular gene mutation (change in a specific gene) has been detected in some ICP patients. ICP typically develops when there are high hormone levels in late pregnancy and in women carrying twins or triplets. It may also occur in women on the oral contraceptive pill. In Europe about 0.2-2.4% of pregnant women will get the condition; in Scandinavia and South America ICP is more common. Does Intrahepatic Cholestasis of Pregnancy run in families? Yes – mothers and sisters of patients with ICP are at higher risk of developing ICP, because there seems to be a change in one of your genes, which may be present in other family members. ICP also tends to recur in subsequent / following pregnancies (60-90%). What are the features of Intrahepatic Cholestasi
