Document Type : Review Articles
Authors
Dermatology, Venereology and Andrology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Egypt
Abstract
Striae distensae (SD), commonly known as stretch marks, are a prevalent dermatological concern affecting 40–70% of the population, particularly in women. SD manifests as two forms: striae rubrae (acute, erythematous, slightly raised lesions) and striae albae (chronic, atrophic, hypopigmented lesions). These marks commonly appear on the abdomen, breasts, thighs, and buttocks due to skin stretching, often associated with pregnancy, puberty, rapid weight changes, and certain medical conditions like Cushing’s syndrome or chronic steroid use. SD results from dermal damage characterized by fibroblast dysfunction, collagen and elastin rupture, and inflammation. Hormonal factors, including elevated estrogen, glucocorticoids, and genetic predisposition, also play a role in SD development. Although SD is not a medical emergency, it can cause psychological distress due to its visible appearance. Treatments for SD are diverse, including topical agents like tretinoin and hyaluronic acid, procedural therapies such as laser therapy (fractional CO2, erbium, pulsed dye, and excimer lasers), microneedling, radiofrequency, and platelet-rich plasma (PRP). Microneedling, a collagen induction technique, creates controlled skin injuries to stimulate dermal remodeling, improving SD appearance. Adapalene, a third-generation retinoid, is also used due to its anti-inflammatory and collagen-promoting effects.
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