Correct option is C
Sol. Striae gravidarum are pinkish or reddish stretch marks commonly appearing on the abdomen, breasts, hips, and thighs during pregnancy. They are caused by the rapid stretching of the skin and hormonal influences like increased cortisol. These marks are common in the second or third trimester. They may be itchy or slightly raised initially. Over time, these marks fade and become white or silvery, called striae albicans.
Explanation of each option:
· (a) Linea nigra – This is a dark vertical line running from the pubic area to the umbilicus seen during pregnancy due to increased melanin. It is not a stretch mark and does not involve any linear tearing of the skin.
· (b) Linea albicans – Not a recognized medical term. It appears to be a confusion with striae albicans, which refers to faded stretch marks.
· (c) Striae gravidarum – Correct. These are the reddish or pink stretch marks that develop during pregnancy due to hormonal and mechanical skin stretching.
· (d) Striae albicans – These are the older, whitish stretch marks that represent the healed phase of striae gravidarum. They typically appear postpartum.