Stria

Also called a stretch-mark, a line on the skin caused by thinning and loss of elasticity in the dermis. Striae first appear as red, raised lines. Later they become purple, eventually fading to shiny streaks. Striae often develop on the hips and thighs during the adolescent growth spurt, especially in athletic girls. They are a common feature of pregnancy, occurring on the breasts, thighs, and lower abdomen. Purple striae are a characteristic feature of Cushing’s syndrome. Striae are thought to be caused by an excess of corticosteroid hormones. There is no means of prevention, but in some cases laser treatment may be used.