PIH

Abbreviation with 2 meanings

PIH
Stands forPost-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
Meanings2
CategoriesMedical

PIH has two meanings. It stands for Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (dermatology) or Pregnancy-induced hypertension (obstetrics & gynecology).

Meanings of PIH at a glance

#PIH stands forContext
1Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentationMedical › Dermatology
2Pregnancy-induced hypertensionMedical › Obstetrics & Gynecology

1. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation

Medical · Dermatology Abbreviations

Darkening of the skin that follows inflammation or injury, such as acne, eczema, burns or procedures, caused by excess melanin production. It is more common, more intense and longer-lasting in people with darker skin tones.

Example: PIH from acne on cheeks, Fitzpatrick V; azelaic acid, sunscreen daily, treat active acne.

Daily broad-spectrum sunscreen is essential because sun exposure deepens PIH. Treatments include hydroquinone, azelaic acid, retinoids and chemical peels, with care to avoid further irritation. Most PIH fades over months. In obstetrics PIH means pregnancy-induced hypertension, an unrelated meaning.

2. Pregnancy-induced hypertension

Medical · Obstetrics & Gynecology Abbreviations

Older umbrella term for high blood pressure that develops after 20 weeks of pregnancy, now divided into gestational hypertension (without signs of organ involvement) and preeclampsia. Blood pressure of 140/90 or higher on two occasions defines it.

Example: PIH at 34 weeks, BP 148/94, protein/creatinine ratio 0.2; labs for preeclampsia twice weekly.

ACOG now uses "gestational hypertension" and "preeclampsia" rather than PIH. Preeclampsia is often abbreviated PEC or preE. Low-dose aspirin started before 16 weeks reduces preeclampsia in high-risk patients. In dermatology PIH means post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

More dermatology abbreviations

  • NB-UVB – Narrowband ultraviolet B phototherapy
  • NMSC – Nonmelanoma skin cancer
  • PASI – Psoriasis Area and Severity Index
  • PDT – Photodynamic therapy
  • PR – Pityriasis rosea
  • PsO – Psoriasis
  • PUVA – Psoralen plus ultraviolet A
  • PV – Pemphigus vulgaris

See all 52 dermatology abbreviations →

More obstetrics & gynecology abbreviations

  • OHSS – Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome
  • Pap – Papanicolaou test
  • PGT – Preimplantation genetic testing
  • PID – Pelvic inflammatory disease
  • PMS – Premenstrual syndrome
  • POI – Primary ovarian insufficiency
  • POP – Pelvic organ prolapse
  • PP – Postpartum

See all 89 obstetrics & gynecology abbreviations →

Edited by the AbbreviationList.com team. Spotted an error or a missing meaning? Contact us.

This entry is for general education and is not medical advice. Abbreviation use varies between institutions; always confirm in context.