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Abdominal striae are linear, depressed, pink or bluish scar-like lesions that may later become silver or white. They are caused by weakening of the elastic cutaneous tissues from chronic stretching. They most commonly occur on the abdomen but are also seen on the buttocks, breasts, axilla, and thighs. Striae are commonly seen in obesity, pregnancy, rapid growth associated with puberty, Cushing syndrome, and chronic topical corticosteroid treatment.
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Management and Disposition
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This finding seldom presents as a condition requiring acute treatment; thus, attention is directed to determining and treating the underlying cause.
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Recent striae with moon facies, hypertension, renal calculi, osteoporosis, and psychiatric disorders are suggestive of Cushing syndrome.
The striae color (red/purple) caused by pregnancy typically fades with time, unlike striae associated with Cushing syndrome.
Inappropriate use of topical corticosteroids can result in permanent striae.
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