Peak bile acid levels and maternal BMI are independent predictors for pruritus severity deterioration in intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP).
Over half (53%) of women with ICP experience worsening pruritus as pregnancy advances, particularly those with severe ICP (peak bile acids ≥ 100 μmol/L).
Baseline liver function tests do not reliably predict pruritus progression; dynamic changes in bile acid levels during gestation are more informative.
Findings stress the importance of individualized monitoring and management strategies for women with ICP, especially those with higher BMI or severe biochemical derangements.
