Intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy

Objective: The aim of this work is to summarize current scientific information focusing on the diagnosis, management, and treatment of intrahepatic cholestasis in pregnancy according to available literature. Methodology: Literature sources were searched using the Web of Science, Scopus, and PubMed/Medline databases. Conclusion: For the diagnosis and proper management of intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy, the postprandial serum bile acid value of the pregnant woman is crucial. Postprandial testing allows for a higher likelihood of identifying patients with significantly elevated bile acid levels. Bile acid values above 100 µmol/l, especially in the 3rd trimester, are associated with a significant risk of severe complications, particularly intrauterine fetal death. Ursodeoxycholic acid, the first-line treatment, according to available data, does not improve perinatal outcomes and has minimal effect on the sensation of itching in patients. The routine administration of ursodeoxycholic acid in the treatment of intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy is controversial. Key words: intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy – bile acids – ursodeoxycholic acid